John R. Williams is President and Chief Operating Officer of Avanath Capital Management (“Avanath”), an institutional fund manager that specializes in affordable and workforce housing investments throughout major U.S. cities. In his role, Mr. Williams spearheads the firm’s portfolio acquisitions, capital formation, investor relations and fund management. Since joining Avanath, Mr. Williams has directed the closing of five institutional investment funds totaling over $2.0 billion of capital, comprised of equity commitments from some of the most prestigious and astute investors, including US pension funds, European pension funds, US university endowments, UK endowments, investment banks, foundations, banks, life insurance companies, and family offices. Since its inception, Avanath has acquired and renovated over 104 affordable housing communities (over 15,000 units) and expanded its national portfolio into 14 states. The firm currently manages over $3.0 billion in assets, employs over 400 people, and focuses on generating attractive risk-adjusted returns, with an emphasis on fulfilling its investor’s ESG objectives. Mr. Williams graduated from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design Executive Program and earned his B.S. in finance from Duquesne University. He is active in the real estate industry, serving as a Governor of the Urban Land Institute (ULI); Past Chairman of the ULI Silver Multi-Family Council; a member of the Executive Committee of the National Multi Housing Council (NMHC); and an Advisory Board Member of the Duquesne University Business School. Mr. Williams is also a frequent speaker at national real estate conferences sponsored by ULI, Pension Real Estate Association (“PREA”), Harvard
Speaking at
Tue Feb 25
3:30 PM — 4:30 PM (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time
Double Bottom Line — Private Investments to Generate Housing Affordability and Financial Returns
Type
Finance
This session will explore innovative investment strategies that balance social impact with financial viability, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing. Join a panel of national and local experts from Atlanta, Charlotte, and other smaller markets as they discuss successful approaches, challenges faced, and replicable solutions. Topics will include the impact of private investment in unlocking new housing developments, preserving existing affordable units, and advancing sustainability initiatives, all while generating solid returns on investments.