Commercial Relationship Manager I

Location: Chattanooga, TN (Hybrid) • Full-Time, Salary Exempt Officer

About the role

This position allows you to develop new business, manage risk, and grow long-term customer relationships while ensuring compliance with banking regulations. You will thrive in a client-focused sales role, originating loans, managing relationships, and collaborating with internal teams to provide seamless service and strategic financial solutions.

Responsibilities

• Originate Loans: Work with clients to structure, underwrite, and close commercial loans.
• Manage Relationships: Build and cultivate long-term client relationships through ongoing communication and financial solutions.
• Sales & Business Development: Develop a strategic pipeline of qualified commercial relationship leads and generate new business through developed leads, client referrals, and networking.
• Evaluate Loan Quality: Review financial data, assess collateral, and determine appropriate loan structures.
• Ensure Compliance: Follow all regulatory guidelines and internal bank policies related to lending.
• Monitor Loan Portfolio: Track and maintain appropriate risk ratings on all relationships in your portfolio.
• Conduct Market Research: Stay up to date on industry trends, competitor offerings, and economic changes that impact commercial clients.
• Cross-Sell Banking Products: Educate clients on additional financial products and services designed to meet their needs.
• Collaborate with Teams: Work closely with internal teams to provide seamless service and strategic financial solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, economics, or accounting is preferred.
• Minimum 1-3 years of experience in commercial lending, audit, loan review, or finance.
• Commercial & Industrial loan experience preferred.
• Proven ability to build relationships, develop referral sources, and grow new account relationships.
• Strong sales skills with experience in prospecting and client outreach.
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a time-sensitive environment with a flexible schedule.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 75% of an eight (8) hour workday.
• Ability to review information and details at close range (within a few feet).
• Ability to travel to client locations and other work sites as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) match, Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), and banking benefits.
• Paid time off, including 11 Federal Reserve bank holidays.
• Tuition assistance and professional development programs.

About First Financial Bank

First Financial Bank is a dynamic financial institution with over $6+ billion in assets and a proud history dating back to 1834. With more than 75 banking centers across five states, we are committed to empowering our clients, fostering personal growth, and building community. Our culture is built on integrity, collaboration, innovation, and respect — the values of "One First" that guide our work every day.