VP, Commercial Loan Officer

A well-capitalized community bank in southern Illinois is seeking a Vice President, Commercial Lending to support and grow its commercial and small-business portfolio within its established footprint. This is a relationship-driven VP role designed for an experienced commercial lender who wants autonomy, visibility, and influence without formal team management. The role is ideal for a lender who prefers to stay hands-on with clients, credit, and the community while operating with meaningful lending authority.

The Vice President of Commercial Lending is responsible for originating, structuring, underwriting, and managing commercial loans while maintaining strong credit quality and long-term customer relationships. The role partners closely with senior leadership. This is a highly visible position within a smaller-bank environment where reputation, judgment, and community presence matter.

Key Responsibilities

Originate, structure, underwrite, and manage commercial loans, including C&I and owner-occupied CRE

Build and maintain strong relationships with local business owners and COIs

Drive sustainable loan and deposit growth within the bank's footprint

Maintain asset quality through disciplined underwriting and proactive portfolio management

Monitor delinquencies and address stressed credits in collaboration with leadership

Operate with sound judgment and independence within assigned lending authority

Qualifications

7+ years of commercial or business lending experience

Strong underwriting and credit analysis skills

Experience managing a commercial loan portfolio independently

Relationship-focused community banking mindset

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field

Compensation & Benefits (Illinois Disclosure)

Base Salary: Up to $145,000 , commensurate with experience, portfolio scope, and overall impact

Incentive Compensation: Performance-based bonus opportunity

Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; Life Insurance & AD&D; Long-Term Disability / Salary Continuance; 401(k); Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Paid Leave (Illinois compliant); Paid Holidays

Why This Opportunity

Strong local decision-making and credit authority

Visible role within a community-focused institution

Ideal for a seasoned lender who values relationships over hierarchy

Qualified professionals interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out directly for a confidential discussion. Contact:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

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