Meet Antonia Zambrano, Assistant Director of LHD Central Office Operations

Twenty-three years ago, Antonia Zambrano submitted her resume at a job fair and shortly after became a NYCHA employee. Starting out as a Bilingual Housing Assistant for the Leased Housing Department, she is now the Assistant Director of the Leased Housing Department’s Central Office Operations. All of the positions Ms. Zambrano has held at the Authority over the years have helped her gain insight into various NYCHA programs and policies. “I always tried to move within different departments in NYCHA to learn something new from each of them,” Ms. Zambrano said.

Ms. Zambrano was born in Mexico and immigrated to NYC at the age of 9. With a degree in sociology and social work, Ms. Zambrano always wanted to help people. “Right after college, this opportunity came up, and I fulfilled my dream by working in a place where I can help people,” she remarked.

“Knowing that you’re helping residents is the best reward,” Ms. Zambrano noted. “We do PACT (Permanent Affordability Commitment Together) conversions, and it gives me great satisfaction knowing that residents are getting the renovations they were waiting for.”

Prior to her current position, Ms. Zambrano served as a Project-Based Contract Manager in the Leased Housing Department. “We have a small unit which continues to grow due to the number of units being added to the project-based voucher program via the PACT conversions and regular project-based RFPs (request for proposals),” said Ms. Zambrano. “The project-based staff have developed a unique set of skills that helps the program run smoothly. I am very thankful to staff that always excel in their work and as a team.”

Ms. Zambrano enjoys helping residents however she can. “Sometimes residents experience a language barrier, a technical difficulty, or have questions,” Ms. Zambrano said. “I call them and answer all their questions. Sometimes all they need is just someone from NYCHA to hear them out and give answers. For instance, if they were reluctant to sign the PACT conversion documents because they had unanswered questions, explaining the process helps, and residents are very grateful for that. It’s very rewarding.”

“Working at NYCHA requires always learning new regulations, adapting to change, and knowing that you help residents through your everyday work.”