Commercial Relationship Manager I

First Financial Bank NA; Chattanooga (TN); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Employer-paid life insurance

Employer-paid disability insurance

401(k) match

ESOP

Paid time off

Job summary

First Financial Bank NA is seeking a Commercial Relationship Manager I in Chattanooga (Hybrid) to originate, structure, and close commercial loans while cultivating long-term client relationships. You will develop a strategic pipeline, assess credit metrics, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The role emphasizes cross-selling financial solutions and collaborating with internal teams to deliver tailored banking services.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in business, finance, economics, or accounting.
• Minimum 1–3 years in commercial lending, audit, loan review, or finance.
• Strong ability to build relationships and grow client accounts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Flexible schedule and ability to travel to client locations.

Responsibilities

• Originate and structure commercial loans, underwriting and close deals.
• Manage and grow long-term client relationships through ongoing communication.
• Develop a strategic pipeline of commercial leads and convert referrals into new business.
• Evaluate loan quality by reviewing financial data and collateral.
• Ensure compliance with banking regulations and internal policies.
• Monitor risk ratings across the loan portfolio and stay informed on industry trends.
• Cross-sell banking products to meet client needs and collaborate with internal teams.

Skills

Relationship building

Sales skills

Communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, economics, or accounting

Job description

Location: Chattanooga, TN (Hybrid)
Status: Full-Time, Salary Exempt Officer

Why Join First Financial Bank?

If you are a results-driven professional with a passion for building relationships and managing commercial lending, our Commercial Relationship Manager I role may be the next step in your banking career. This position allows you to develop new business, manage risk, and grow long-term customer relationships while ensuring compliance with banking regulations. If you thrive in a client-focused sales role we invite you to join our team.

What You’ll Do

• Originate Loans: Work with clients to structure, underwrite, and close commercial loans.
• Manage Relationships: Build and cultivate long-term client relationships through ongoing communication and financial solutions.
• Sales & Business Development: Develop a strategic pipeline of qualified commercial relationship leads and g enerate new business through developed leads, client referrals, and networking.
• Evaluate Loan Quality: Review financial data, assess collateral, and determine appropriate loan structures.
• Ensure Compliance: Follow all regulatory guidelines and internal bank policies related to lending.
• Monitor Loan Portfolio: Track and maintain appropriate risk ratings on all relationships in your portfolio.
• Conduct Market Research: Stay up to date on industry trends, competitor offerings, and economic changes that impact commercial clients.
• Cross-Sell Banking Products: Educate clients on additional financial products and services designed to meet their needs.
• Collaborate with Teams: Work closely with internal teams to provide seamless service and strategic financial solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, economics, or accounting is preferred.
• Minimum 1-3 years of experience in commercial lending, audit, loan review, or finance.
• Commercial & Industrial loan experience preferred.
• Proven ability to build relationships, develop referral sources, and grow new account relationships.
• Strong sales skills with experience in prospecting and client outreach.
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a time-sensitive environment with a flexible schedule.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 75% of an eight (8) hour workday.
• Ability to review information and details at close range (within a few feet).
• Ability to travel to client locations and other work sites as needed.

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!

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, cross-bases issues, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes.