Chief Credit Officer

Job Description

Job Description

We are changing FINANCE to finance CHANGE!

At  Climate First Bank , we're redefining what banking can be. As a Florida Benefit Corporation and FDIC-insured commercial bank, we offer a full suite of personal and business services—including solar, residential, commercial, ESOP Banking, Structured Finance and SBA loans—all designed to power a better future. We're proud to be a Certified B Corporation, a member of 1% for the Planet, and part of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), reflecting our deep commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ethical banking.

With branches in  St. Petersburg, Winter Park, Mount Dora , and a growing  digital presence , we're proving that banking can be a force for good. We don't just support environmental and social causes—we're built on them.

Under our Holding Company,  Climate First Bancorp , we are also powered by OneEthos.  OneEthos operates at the intersection of fintech and traditional banking to expand access to inclusive, values-driven financial services. Regulated by the Federal Reserve Bank, it equips Community Banks, Credit Unions, CDFIs, and Green Banks with ethical lending tools—especially in climate finance and solar lending.

We're seeking  driven, mission-aligned individuals ready to make an impact. If you're passionate about sustainability, thrive in a fast-paced, results driven environment, and want to be part of something bigger, you will feel right at home.

Our team is one of  goal-setters, go-getters, problem solvers, thought leaders, and changemakers . We celebrate wins, tackle challenges head-on, and push boundaries. Fueled by purpose, we thrive where perseverance and passion turn ambitious goals into reality.

At Climate First Bank, we're investing in your future. We offer a comprehensive, people-first benefits package that supports your health, finances, and work-life balance. Please note that benefit eligibility varies by employment status and that benefits for part-time employees may differ from those listed below.

Compensation  —  In addition to the base salary, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus, incentives and equity. Actual compensation is based on industry salary ranges, internal salary structures, experience, skills and other job-related factors.

Health Coverage — 100% employer-paid for employees; employer contribution for dependents by Us

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 
• Health Savings Account (HSA) 
• Free Telemedicine access via Teladoc

Financial Wellness & Wealth Building

• 401(k) with 6% Employer Match —No Vesting Period.
• Employee Stock Options 
• Exclusive Employee Banking Perks 
• 0% Financing for Employee Solar Loans 
• Employee Only Mortgage Product  with exclusive interest rates and terms.
• 0% Financing for Eligible Electric Vehicles (EVs) 
• Referral Incentives 

Generous Paid Time Off

• 2–4 Weeks of Vacation based on officer level plus additional tenure-based time.
• 64 Hours of Paid Sick Time  for all full-time employees.

Protection & Peace of Mind

• Company-Paid Life Insurance 
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Life, Accident & Critical Illness Coverage  
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)  with free counseling, legal, and financial services.

Now Hiring: Chief Credit Officer (CCO)

We're seeking a  Chief Credit Officer  to be   responsible for overseeing the credit risk management and lending operations of the bank. You'll ensure that the bank's credit policies and procedures are effectively implemented to maintain a high-quality loan portfolio while supporting the bank's growth objectives. This role involves strategic planning, leadership, and collaboration with other senior executives to achieve the bank's financial goals.

What You'll Contribute as the CCO

Credit Risk & Loan Portfolio Management

• Develop and implement comprehensive credit risk management strategies.
• Minimize potential losses and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the bank's loan portfolio ensuring proper diversification and risk mitigation.

Policy Development & Credit Approval Process

• Create, review, and update credit policies and procedures.
• Lead the credit approval process.

Team Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, & Strategic Planning

• Manage/mentor the credit team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with all stakeholders to support the bank's mission and objectives.
• Contribute to the bank's strategic planning process.

Regulatory Compliance, Reporting & Analysis

• Ensure adherence to all relevant banking regulations and guidelines.
• Provide regular reports and analysis to executives and board of directors on the performance and risk profile of the loan portfolio.

Champion Our Mission, Protect What Matters

• Embody a commitment to environmental, social, economic, and racial justice.
• Apply curiosity and interest in our core values and pursue education related to sustainability practices.
• Pursue and demonstrate an understanding of established Bank policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Recognize the importance of protecting the organization and our customers.
• Stay informed on legal context and regulatory requirements; prioritize completing all web-based compliance and IT training.

What You'll Leverage in this Role:

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in Credit Operations and Commercial Lending. Preferably at a community bank.
• 5+ years of experience leading diverse teams including staff and middle management.
• Ability to direct, grow and develop teams and individuals.

Entrepreneurial Self-Starter Mentality -  You take charge of your work product and take pride in delivering consistently great and measurable results. You can think and act strategically, with an exceptional ability to solve problems, analyze and forecast needs while also mitigating existing and potential risks. Exceptional project management skills is no feat to you and you hold the ability to effectively drive short-and long-term projects to a close. A high-pace and high-expectation environment excites you – you possess superior time-management and prioritization skills that allow you to keep up with our growing environment.

Master Communicator -  Whether it's in-person, on camera, phone, or chat — you communicate with confidence, precision, and professionalism. You listen deeply and respond thoughtfully - you're able to engage efficiently and tactfully with stakeholders at all levels of the organization. Additionally, you masterfully build relationships with all stakeholders, customers, and employees of all levels allowing you to develop business with strong influencing and decision-making skills.

Banking & Fintech Acumen - You are highly educated and understand credit risk management principles, banking regulations, and industry best practices. You also possess strong overall business acumen and the ability to interpret financial reports and legal documents. You have excellent proficiency in financial analysis and credit evaluation. Strong knowledge of unique industries and markets in conjunction with a broad knowledge of business banking products and services is required.

Tech-Forward and Analytical Thinking - You possess sound proficiency in banking software and technology. You're able to learn new tools quickly, are excited by innovation and hold the ability to teach other team members.

Commitment to Being a Team Player - You lift others up, share ideas, and bring positive energy to everything you do. You know what it takes to operate as a part of a larger team and cherish opportunities to contribute to the big picture.

What to Expect from Your Physical Environment

• Remote role within the state of Florida; preferably within the Central Florida area.
• Occasional U.S. travel for company events or leadership sessions.
• Sustained standing and sitting.
• Frequent communication (speaking and listening) and use of PC, including typing or sustained attention to monitor.
• Occasional lifting up to 20 lbs.

Equal Opportunity Statement:At Climate First Bank we truly believe that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our workforce are directly linked to our success. Diversity and inclusion are at the core of our values and mission. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs.Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/VeteransE -Verify Statement: This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9