Commercial Lender

Our client is a well-established, mission-driven financial institution with deep roots in the faith-based and nonprofit community, committed to serving its members and the communities in which they live and work. As part of a strategic expansion, they are opening a new Fort Wayne office and are seeking an experienced Commercial Lender to help establish and grow their presence in the market. This individual will play a foundational role in building the commercial lending portfolio in Fort Wayne. The ideal candidate is a seasoned lender who is already embedded in the Fort Wayne business community and shares a commitment to values-aligned, relationship-driven banking.
Responsibilities

• Originate, underwrite, document, and monitor commercial loans across a range of product types including business loans, SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, commercial real estate, lines of credit, and equipment financing
• Proactively develop new business through community involvement, networking, and cultivation of centers of influence - not reliant on broker deals or walk-in volume
• Manage and grow a commercial loan portfolio while maintaining high credit quality and regulatory compliance
• Partner with local market leadership to develop and execute a business development strategy aligned with the institution's mission and community presence
• Serve nonprofit organizations, faith-based institutions, and for-profit businesses with a consultative, relationship-first approach
• Maintain working knowledge of SBA lending programs, commercial credit policy, and applicable federal regulations including BSA, OFAC, and AML requirements
• Represent the institution in the Fort Wayne community through participation in local organizations, events, and civic activities
• Collaborate with internal partners across lending, treasury, and member services to deliver comprehensive financial solutions

• Minimum of 3 years of commercial lending experience at a bank, credit union, or financial institution
• Bachelor's degree required; MBA preferred
• Demonstrated ability to generate and close commercial loans through organic business development
• Strong credit and underwriting skills across commercial real estate and C&I lending
• SBA lending experience (7(a) and 504) strongly preferred
• Established network in the Fort Wayne business community is a significant advantage
• Alignment with a faith-based, community-focused mission and values is a strong differentiator
• Experience serving nonprofit organizations and/or faith-based institutions is a plus
• Ability to operate with a high degree of professionalism, integrity, and independent judgment
• Proficiency in standard lending and financial software; strong Excel and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills