SBA Business Development Officer II

About the role

The SBA Business Development Officer II is a revenue-driven sales professional responsible for originating SBA lending opportunities across an assigned market and broader multi-state footprint (26 states). Serving as the SBA subject matter expert for internal banking teams, this role develops business through both internal referral channels and external Centers of Influence (COIs). The primary objective is to generate and close SBA 7a loan volume for sale on the secondary market, with compensation tied directly to production through commissions and tiered incentive programs. In addition to 7a lending, the BDO identifies and executes opportunities across other SBA products, including SBA 504, SBA Capline, and SBA Express loans, to meet client needs and maximize revenue potential.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain a strong referral network through internal bank partners and external Centers of Influence (COIs/referral sources) to generate new SBA lending opportunities.
• Act as the SBA subject matter expert within assigned market(s).
• Partner with internal bankers to support client conversations, answer SBA program questions, and participate in joint client meetings.
• Drive relationship expansion by partnering with internal teams to identify additional client business, including deposit accounts, treasury management, and wealth management solutions.
• Promote the bank’s SBA capabilities and brand presence within the community and targeted industries.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to prospective SBA borrowers, guiding them through available SBA Loan Programs and financing options.
• Structure SBA loan opportunities, identifying key strengths, risks, and mitigating factors.
• Collaborate with credit partners throughout the underwriting process.
• Work closely with underwriting and closing teams to efficiently move transactions through all stages of the loan lifecycle.
• Partner with Sales Manager to develop and execute marketing strategies to generate SBA lending opportunities.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through proactive outreach, networking events, trade shows, and professional organization events to promote Busey Bank.
• Consistently develop and manage a pipeline, submitting 1-2 new opportunities per month.

Requirements

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong sales, customer service, and negotiating skills.
• Knowledge of Small Business Administration Loan Programs.
• Experience moving loans through the entirety of the process from origination to underwriting to closing.
• Ability to develop referral sources and consistently submit new loan opportunities.
• Ability to work in a team environment and willingness to learn new skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in Accounting or Finance is preferred or comparable experience.
• Received formal credit training in past roles providing a fundamental understanding of credits and the ability to discuss deals with credit counterparts.
• Previous background in SBA 7(a) business development is preferred.

Pay

Base pay range: $90,000 - $120,000/year. The role may be eligible for bonus or incentives based on company and individual performance.

Benefits

• 401(k) match.
• Profit sharing.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Paid time off.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability.
• Supplemental voluntary life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability.
• Wellness incentives.
• Employee assistance program.
• Pre-tax health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.