AVP - Commercial Credit Underwriter

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Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented AVP Commercial Credit Underwriter to join our commercial lending team. This leadership role is responsible for analyzing complex financial data to evaluate creditworthiness, recommend loan structures, and support the renewal process. The AVP will mentor junior credit staff, contribute to policy development, and serve as a key resource in the absence of the Credit Risk Manager. This position involves direct interaction with clients, financial statement analysis, credit reporting, and portfolio monitoring, making it ideal for a proactive professional with strong analytical and leadership skills. This role is based in our Executive Offices in Holyoke, MA.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluate the financial condition of commercial loan applicants by analyzing data from credit bureaus, bank records, and external sources.
• Analyze new, renewal, and existing loan requests, including ACH and RDC limit increases, and review vendor relationships.
• Spread and interpret financial statements, calculate key financial ratios, and recommend appropriate loan structures in line with bank policy.
• Handle complex credit analyses and provide guidance on primary and secondary repayment sources.
• Mentor and train junior credit staff; provide leadership support in the absence of the Credit Risk Manager, including coordinating meetings and reviewing work.
• Order and assess credit reports; respond to credit inquiries in accordance with RMA guidelines.
• Participate in customer and prospect meetings to gather underwriting information and build relationships.
• Review real estate appraisals for transactions under $750,000.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining reports related to the commercial loan portfolio.
• Other duties as needed.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university
• 5 years' experience in underwriting a variety of credits (both commercial real estate as well as C & I)
• OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Computer/Technical Skills:

• Knowledge of MS Office, including Word, Excel
• Ability to adapt to other software systems used by the Credit Department and Bank.

Skills Required:

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to calculate and interpret financial figures such as interest, discounts, and commissions
• Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to draft reports, business correspondence, and procedural documentation
• Confident verbal communicator with the ability to present complex information clearly to managers, clients, and stakeholders
• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience guiding junior team members and stepping into leadership roles as needed
• Advanced knowledge of commercial lending procedures, credit analysis, and regulatory requirements
• Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset
• Demonstrated experience in credit policy development, financial analysis, and risk assessment
• High attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.