Chief Lending Officer: CRE & SBA Growth Leader

Avana Companies; Peoria (AZ); On-site; USD 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

AVANA Companies in Arizona is seeking a Chief Lending Officer to lead the origination and syndication of commercial debt across CRE and SBA 504 lending platforms. You will set the enterprise lending strategy and integrate credit policy that protects portfolio quality while driving sustainable balance sheet growth.

The role owns the full loan portfolio's performance, collaborates with the CEO and Credit Committee, and partners with executive leadership to align production with risk appetite and

Qualifications

• 12+ years in commercial banking or private credit with senior leadership.
• Deep expertise in CRE and SBA loan structuring, credit risk management.
• Proven track record of balance sheet growth at a bank, credit union, or private lender.
• Strong analytical and verbal/written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee origination and syndication of commercial debt across CRE and SBA 504 lending.
• Set structuring standards for large and complex transactions and approve high-risk credits.
• Drive balance sheet growth by aligning production with credit and profitability objectives.
• Foster strategic partnerships with capital providers and represent AVANA at industry events.

Skills

Executive leadership

Credit risk management

CRE lending

SBA lending

Financial analysis

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder communication

Team development

Strategic partnerships

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Finance

MBA preferred

Job description

AVANA Companies in Arizona is seeking a Chief Lending Officer to lead the origination and syndication of commercial debt across CRE and SBA 504 lending platforms. You will set the enterprise lending strategy and integrate credit policy that protects portfolio quality while driving sustainable balance sheet growth.

The role owns the full loan portfolio's performance, collaborates with the CEO and Credit Committee, and partners with executive leadership to align production with risk appetite and