Senior Credit Officer

About the Role

Support a designated market with a primary focus on underwriting and approval of credit requests, while also supporting the ongoing service of the market’s portfolio. This role includes traditional credit responsibilities for asset quality, highlighting credit proposals that do not meet FirstBank’s credit risk appetite, and consulting with Regional Presidents and Regional Credit Officers as needed.

Responsibilities

• Proactively work with Bankers to make independent credit decisions in a timely manner that align with the Bank’s credit appetite and service commitment.
• Analyze available information and formulate action plans addressing:
  • Initial exploratory discussions with Market Presidents, Relationship Managers, and Portfolio Managers.
  • Deep financial assessment of Borrower/Guarantor repayment capacity.
  • Evaluation of collateral, character, and experience of Borrower/Guarantor.
  • Adherence to policy and industry issues.
• Demonstrate knowledge of all credit products, including loans, ACH, LCs, and SWAPs, as well as Consumer and Business (CRE and C & I) customer types, asset classes, and industries.
• Assist with the education, training, and mentoring of Relationship Managers, Portfolio Managers, and Relationship Manager Associates related to the credit process.
• Exhibit an expert understanding of banking industry regulatory compliance, including FirstBank-specific policies and procedures.
• With support from the Regional Credit Officer, assist Regional Presidents/Market Presidents with underwriting, structuring, and closing complex credits.
• Serve as an integral member of the Credit Quality Control Review team, reviewing source documents to ensure compliance with credit approval authority, policy exceptions, and ancillary forms.
• Foster a professional experience for internal associates and external clients.
• Attend weekly/monthly Market Sales Meetings and Client/Key Prospect Meetings.
• Provide oversight and assistance with ongoing portfolio analysis, identifying customer trends, loan modifications, and timely risk ratings.
• Adhere to safe and sound banking procedures, including applicable laws, regulations, internal controls, and risk management policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (Finance, Accounting, or Economics strongly preferred).
• Minimum 10+ years of banking experience, with at least 4 years in a meaningful credit role.

Skills

• Advanced Mathematical Skills: Ability to work with mathematical and algebraic concepts such as probability, statistical inference, forecasting, and advanced ratio analysis. Apply these concepts to practical underwriting situations.
• Advanced Computer Skills: Frequent use of email, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Ability to create and maintain documents, spreadsheets, and databases to support business objectives.
• Complex Communication: Ability to communicate complex information, resolve delicate situations, and motivate or persuade others.
• Problem-Solving: Address varied and complex business problems using knowledge, skills, and collaboration with other operating areas.
• Ethical Behavior: Demonstrate the highest level of ethical behavior, confidentiality, and professionalism in interactions with associates and managers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understand and comply with bank policies, laws, and regulations applicable to job duties, including completing compliance training and reporting violations.

Location Impact

Decisions impact the management and operations within a specific location and may contribute to broader business and operational decisions affecting the market.