Community Development Officer

About the role

At Southland Credit Union, we believe helping people achieve financial well-being starts with building strong relationships in the communities we serve. Every partnership we create, every connection we make, and every conversation we have is an opportunity to introduce more people to the personalized service and financial solutions that help them reach their goals. As our Community Development Officer, you'll serve as an ambassador for Southland Credit Union by developing meaningful relationships with local businesses, community organizations, Select Employee Groups (SEGs), and referral partners. Through outreach, networking, and financial wellness education, you'll help expand our membership while creating lasting partnerships that strengthen both our communities and our organization.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Build and strengthen relationships with local businesses, Select Employee Groups (SEGs), community organizations, and strategic partners to grow membership and deepen community connections.
• Identify new opportunities to expand Southland's presence by developing referral networks and cultivating long-term business relationships.
• Meet with prospective and existing members to understand their financial goals and recommend solutions that support their financial well-being.
• Represent Southland Credit Union at community events, networking functions, employer presentations, and financial wellness workshops.
• Partner with branch teams and internal departments to generate referrals, strengthen member relationships, and support business development initiatives.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Community Engagement leadership to execute campaigns and outreach strategies that increase awareness and engagement.
• Monitor business development results, analyze trends, and identify opportunities to improve growth strategies and community impact.
• Maintain accurate records of partnerships, outreach activities, referrals, and business development efforts.
• Ensure all activities are conducted in compliance with Credit Union policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Serve as a trusted representative of Southland Credit Union by delivering exceptional service and fostering positive relationships throughout the communities we serve.

Knowledge and Skills

• Experience two or more years of progressively responsible experience in business development, outside sales, relationship management, financial services, banking, credit union operations, or a related field.
• Experience building professional relationships, generating new business opportunities, and achieving growth objectives.
• Experience presenting to groups, networking within the community, or managing business partnerships is highly valued.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Marketing, Communications, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience will also be considered.
• Knowledge of financial products and services, member acquisition strategies, and consultative sales practices.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with businesses, community organizations, referral partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Excellent networking, presentation, and public speaking skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build trust and connect with a variety of audiences.
• Ability to identify new opportunities, analyze market trends, and recommend strategies that support sustainable growth.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, events, and follow-up activities.
• Ability to work independently while exercising sound judgment and initiative.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM systems, reporting tools, and other business applications.
• Ability to travel locally to businesses, community events, and Credit Union locations as needed.

Schedule and Travel

• Local travel of up to approximately 70% is required based on business needs, community events, networking opportunities, and partner visits.
• The primary territory includes areas surrounding our locations in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and Downey.
• Work hours vary based on scheduled events and business needs.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends is required to support community outreach, networking events, and organizational initiatives.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

This role gives you the opportunity to make a difference beyond the walls of the Credit Union. Every relationship you build, every workshop you lead, and every partnership you develop helps more individuals, families, and businesses gain access to trusted financial guidance and the tools they need to achieve financial well-being. At Southland, you'll work alongside a collaborative team that believes in supporting one another while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. You'll have the opportunity to grow professionally, contribute new ideas, and play an important role in expanding Southland's reach through genuine relationships and community involvement.

Equal Opportunity & Pay Transparency

Southland Credit Union is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with California law, the pay range for this position is included in the job posting. Actual compensation will be based on qualifications, experience, skills, and business needs. Salary: Minimum USD $68,000.00/Yr. Salary Maximum USD $79,000.00/Yr.