Chief Credit Officer

This position is based in Northbrook, IL, and requires the ability to be in the office.

Overview

Evolving from SmartBiz Loans, a leading provider of small business loans, SmartBiz Bank offers a broad range of business banking solutions to small businesses across the U.S. – solutions built specifically to serve the dynamic needs of entrepreneurs and foster the growth of the small business community. SmartBiz Bank’s commitment to transparency and personalized customer service offers an unparalleled banking experience, ensuring small businesses have the financial services they need to grow and thrive. Headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, with an additional office in Austin, Texas, we are proud to serve both our local and national small business communities.

Position Overview

The Chief Credit Officer is responsible for overseeing the entire credit function of the bank. Reporting directly to the Chief Lending Officer in Northbrook, the CCO ensures the bank stays within regulatory guidelines and approved credit policies.

Primary duties include:

• Oversee all aspects of the bank’s credit administration, which includes a combination of traditional real estate and C&I loans, along with SBA 7(a) loans
• Maintain, modify, and continually update the bank’s lending policies.
• Dual approval of loans within the authority established in the Bank’s credit approval matrix.
• Prepares weekly, monthly and quarterly management reports for both Management Credit and the Director Loan Committees.
• Primary liaison with examiners, auditors, and loan review to facilitate their understanding of the bank’s loan portfolio and credit culture, as well as coordinate responses to document requests.
• Partner with the lending team to structure deals that balance client needs with prudent risk management
• Partner with the national lending team to guide small loan credit box; underwriting standards to keep credit losses at an acceptable level
• Manage and mentor the credit team, fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration
• Interact with legal counsel for troubled loans and responses to legal notices
• Assist the credit department with annual reviews of credits.

Skills / Requirements

• Computer literate with the ability to utilize all programs, including but not limited to: Microsoft Windows, Excel, Outlook, Word, Abrigo, Google Suite, Fiserv, and other specific bank-related software. Sales force experience is a plus.
• Able to multitask while prioritizing responsibilities and tasks.
• Demonstrate strong leadership within the department and overall bank.
• Embrace technology to effect continuous improvement within credit department procedures.
• Able to communicate clearly orally and in writing.
• Highly effective interpersonal skills, working in a team environment.
• Highly organized, reliable, and effective with management of time.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and mathematical abilities.
• An ability to attend client meetings as needed.
• The ability to work extra hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as needed to accommodate customers and prospects, and assist with Saturday manager duties
• Supervisory Responsibilities: Approximately 4 direct reports, including credit analysts.

Education and Experience

• College degree, particularly in related fields of study such as Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, etc.
• Experience working with an OCC-regulated bank
• Previous credit authority up to $500,000
• Minimum 10 years in the lending and/or credit areas with a focus on SBA lending, including a minimum of 5 years as a Senior Credit Officer or Chief Credit Officer.

Opportunities & Benefits at SmartBiz Bank

Join a mission-driven team that’s reimagining small business banking. At SmartBiz Bank, we’re building the future of financial access — empowering entrepreneurs to thrive while creating meaningful careers for our people.

What We Offer

• Shape the future of small business banking — help drive innovation and financial inclusion for business owners nationwide.
• Competitive compensation — including salary, performance-based incentives (for certain roles), and equity participation.
• Comprehensive benefits — 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees, spouses, and dependents. 100% employer-paid life and disability insurance, and an employee-funded 401(k) retirement plan.
• Time to recharge — a flexible vacation policy designed to promote rest, balance, and well-being.
• Inclusive, people-first culture — guided by our values of empathy, excellence, and bold innovation, with equal opportunities for all.

-- SmartBiz Bank is an Equal Opportunity employer and is proud to provide equal employment opportunity to all job seekers without regard to any status protected by applicable law. California residents can learn more about how we use your information by visiting