Senior Commercial Lending Officer

Senior Commercial Relationship Manager

Location: Bowling Green, KY (Hybrid)

Status: Full-Time, Salary Exempt Officer

Why Join First Financial Bank?

At First Financial Bank, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. As a Senior Commercial Relationship Manager, you'll play a key role in serving complex commercial clients while contributing to our legacy of integrity, expertise, and community commitment. This role is ideal for a seasoned banker who thrives on business development, strategic relationship building, and mentoring others. You'll have the opportunity to lead high-value client relationships, manage a growing portfolio, and drive cross-functional collaboration that creates lasting value for both our clients and our institution.

What You'll Do

• Grow the commercial portfolio: Identify, build, and maintain a robust pipeline of qualified commercial loan prospects and existing client opportunities.
• Deepen client relationships: Serve as the lead relationship manager for a portfolio of complex commercial clients, aligning financial solutions with business goals.
• Structure and analyze deals: Conduct initial credit analysis, assess collateral and cash flow, and partner with Credit and Lending leadership to structure sound loan packages.
• Lead presentations and recommendations: Develop loan term sheets, prepare presentations, and make lending or adverse action recommendations aligned with policy.
• Collaborate across teams: Coordinate with internal departments including Credit, Trust, Retail, and Treasury to ensure integrated support for client needs.
• Mentor and oversee associates: Provide guidance to two or more team members, supporting their development and ensuring quality relationship management.
• Ensure portfolio health: Monitor risk ratings, maintain client files, collect financials, and coordinate with Special Assets on problem loan transitions.
• Engage the community: Represent First Financial Bank in the business community through networking and visibility, supporting regional growth goals.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Marketing, or related field (required).
• Minimum 10 years of commercial banking experience, including credit analysis and portfolio management.
• Demonstrated success in business development and client relationship management.
• Strong credit and financial acumen; ability to structure complex commercial deals.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Proven leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
• Alignment with FFB values of soundness, growth, value, accountability, and community.
• Ability occasionally to work at various locations within driving distance.
• Ability to review information and details at close range (within a few feet).

What We Offer

• Competitive Pay & Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• Financial Perks: 401(k) match, Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), and banking benefits.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, including 11 Federal Reserve bank holidays.
• Growth Opportunities: Tuition assistance and professional development programs.
• A Supportive Culture: Integrity, collaboration, innovation, and respect are at the heart of what we do.

Who We Are

First Financial Bank is a dynamic financial institution with over $6+ billion in assets and a proud history dating back to 1834. With more than 75 banking centers across five states, we are committed to empowering our clients, fostering personal growth, and building community.

Joining First Financial Bank means becoming part of a legacy where your work directly contributes to the stability and growth of the communities we serve. Here, you are more than an employee; you are an essential member of a team dedicated to living out the values of "One First" every day. Be part of a bank that values your contributions and invests in your future!

Ready to Join Us?

Apply now and take the next step in your banking career! We review all applications and will respond promptly.

First Financial Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes.