Francis J. Russo is an experienced Licensed Real Estate Agent with over 50 years in real estate, risk management, and financial oversight. His career spans commercial banking, real estate brokerage, and nonprofit community development, where he has made a significant impact in leadership and management roles. 

Early Career 

Russo started his career at European American Bank in New York, where he spent over 25 years as Vice President. He managed commercial portfolios and loans, developing key skills in financial management and risk oversight. In the early 2000s, he moved to Halstead Property in New York City, working as an Associate Broker specializing in cooperative and condominium sales and rentals. 

Riseboro Community Partnership 

In 2011, Russo began his long-term involvement with Riseboro Community Partnership, a nonprofit in Brooklyn. He served on the board and as Chair, guiding the organization through challenges, including Management Improvement Agreements required by New York State and City. In 2016, he joined Riseboro’s staff as Risk Manager, overseeing a $6 million insurance portfolio and managing the financial health of the organization’s extensive housing portfolio, which includes over 45 HDFCs, LPs, and LLCs. 

Key Achievements 

• Led the hiring of new insurance brokers to improve risk management. 
• Converted 25 financial statements to full audits for better transparency. 
• Secured cyber insurance to protect against online threats. 
• Restored financial stability to co-op boards and maintained commercial tenant retention during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Current Work 

Russo currently works part-time with Fedcap Inc., a social service nonprofit, handling landlord relations and reviewing commercial leases. 

He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University and has completed MBA studies in accounting at New York University. 

Legacy 

With a career focused on service, leadership, and community development, Francis J. Russo has made a lasting impact on every organization he’s been part of. His expertise continues to shape the future of nonprofit and real estate sectors.