Director Relationship Manager - Middle Market Banking

Director Relationship Manager - Middle Market

At First Citizens Bank, we believe meaningful careers are built through meaningful relationships. For more than 125 years, we've supported our clients, communities and colleagues through a culture rooted in connection, collaboration and long-term success.

First Citizens Middle Market Banking brings a relationship and advisory driven approach to delivering tailored banking solutions that support growth, strategic objectives and long-term success to privately held, family-owned and publicly traded companies across a variety of industries.

The Director Relationship Manager - Middle Market is a senior commercial banking professional responsible for developing, managing, and expanding a portfolio of middle market client relationships. Serving as the client's primary financial advisor, the Director/Managing Director delivers comprehensive banking solutions that support growth, liquidity, capital structure, treasury management, and wealth management objectives.

This role is responsible for cultivating new business opportunities, deepening existing relationships, and positioning the Bank as the lead financial institution for clients. The Director leverages extensive credit expertise, industry knowledge, and consultative sales skills to structure customized solutions while maintaining strong risk management and portfolio quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain a portfolio of middle market companies with annual revenues typically ranging from $75MM to $1bn.
• Serve as the primary relationship manager and trusted financial advisor, providing strategic guidance on financing, cash flow management, capital investment, acquisitions, and growth initiatives.
• Source, originate, and close new commercial banking relationships through proactive business development, community involvement, and centers of influence, including attorneys, CPAs, and business advisors.
• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver comprehensive banking solutions, including commercial lending, treasury management, depository services, capital markets, interest rate risk management, and wealth management.
• Expand wallet share by identifying opportunities for product penetration and relationship growth across the client's organization.

Credit & Portfolio Management

• Analyze complex financial statements, cash flows, and business performance metrics to assess creditworthiness and structure financing solutions.
• Partner with Credit Administration to underwrite, negotiate, and manage commercial banking relationships while maintaining prudent credit standards.
• Monitor portfolio performance, identify emerging risks, and proactively implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Present credit recommendations and relationship strategies to senior credit and executive management committees.

Client Leadership & Strategic Advisory

• Maintain a deep understanding of industry trends, market dynamics, economic conditions, and competitive factors impacting clients.
• Provide strategic thought leadership and financial expertise to business owners and executives.
• Coordinate internal resources to deliver exceptional client experiences and ensure timely execution of complex transactions.
• Act as an advocate for clients while balancing profitability, risk, and regulatory requirements.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements, compliance standards, and Bank policies.
• Maintain strong portfolio quality through disciplined credit risk management and ongoing client monitoring.
• Promote a culture of sound risk management while supporting responsible business growth.

Director Qualifications:

Minimum Required Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree and 8 years' experience OR High School Diploma or GED/Equivalent and 12 years' experience in Commercial Banking, Relationship Management, Sales

Preferred:

• MBA, Business Administration, Finance, Economics
• 12 years of Middle Market Banking, Corporate Banking experience
• Formal Credit Training
• 2 5 years hands on credit experience
• 8 10 years RM within Commercial Banking Middle Market
• Acquiring clients, selling commercial lending products

The base pay for this position is generally between $185,000.00 and $240,000.00. Actual starting base pay will be determined based on skills, experience, location, and other non-discriminatory factors permitted by law. For some roles, total compensation may also include variable incentives, bonuses, benefits, and/or other awards as outlined in the offer of employment.

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at