Senior Commercial Business Development Specialist - C&I

First Financial Bank; Worthington (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Incentive eligibility

Benefits Guide

Job summary

First Financial Bank in Worthington, OH, is seeking a Senior Commercial BD Specialist to lead strategic deposit growth and market expansion. You will mentor a team of business development professionals, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and advise executive leadership on market opportunities and competitive positioning.

The role emphasizes extensive banking experience, strong leadership, and proven ability to drive high-value client acquisitions across large corporate segments.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in banking/financial services with business development focus.
• Proven record of leading BD efforts delivering deposit growth.
• In-depth knowledge of commercial banking products and markets.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to analyze complex financial and market data to guide strategy.

Responsibilities

• Lead identification, development, and execution of high-value commercial deposit opportunities.
• Design and implement strategies to drive deposit growth across market segments.
• Advise executive leadership on market trends, competitor strategies, and opportunities.
• Lead presentations, negotiations, and relationship-building with large clients.
• Collaborate with marketing, product, and operations to align client needs with objectives.
• Monitor financial reports and market data, adjusting strategies to optimize outcomes.
• Represent the bank at high-profile industry events and conferences to build brand.

Skills

Business development

Relationship management

Financial analysis

Leadership

CRM systems

Data analytics

Microsoft Office

Tools

CRM systems

Data analytics tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We do the right things, right now. We do them in a way that is relevant to our clients. Become a part of our history as it continues to be written! The Senior Commercial Business Development Specialist ("Senior Commercial BD Specialist") plays a critical leadership role in advancing the bank's strategic initiatives related to organic deposit growth and market expansion. Building on a proven track record in business development, the Senior Commercial BD Specialist is responsible for shaping long-term business strategies, driving high-value client acquisition, and mentoring a team of business development professionals. With a focus on fostering deep relationships and maximizing market opportunities, this role ensures alignment with the bank’s broader commercial objectives, contributing significantly to revenue growth and competitive positioning.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Lead the identification, development, and execution of high-value commercial deposit opportunities.
• Design and implement comprehensive business development strategies that drive significant deposit growth across various market segments.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to executive leadership, offering insights into market trends, competitor strategies, and emerging business opportunities.
• Lead presentations, negotiations, and relationship-building efforts with large, complex clients and key stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, product development, and operations, to ensure client needs are met and business objectives are aligned.
• Monitor and analyze detailed financial reports, market data, and performance metrics, adjusting strategies as necessary to achieve optimal business outcomes.
• Represent the bank at high-profile industry events, networking opportunities, and conferences to build brand recognition and promote business development initiatives.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in banking, financial services, or a related industry, with a strong focus on business development and relationship management.
• Proven track record of leading successful business development efforts that result in significant deposit growth.
• In-depth understanding of commercial banking products, services, and financial markets.
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and drive performance in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong ability to analyze complex financial and market data to make informed decisions and develop actionable business strategies.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and build long-term client relationships.
• Proficiency with CRM systems, data analytics tools, and advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills.
• Strategic thinker with a demonstrated ability to manage large projects, solve complex problems, and navigate competitive market conditions.

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

Level of Complexity and Scope

• Manages highly complex business development initiatives, working with large corporate clients and navigating competitive market conditions.
• Requires advanced strategic thinking and leadership skills to influence high-level decision-making.

Degree of Independence and Decision-Making

Operates with minimal supervision, making critical decisions regarding strategic business opportunities. Regularly advises executive management on market positioning, client acquisition strategies, and long-term business planning.

Required Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directs and manages a team of business development professionals, providing leadership, mentoring, and performance oversight. Responsible for team development, including recruiting, training, and succession planning.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel extensively to meet with high-profile clients, attend conferences, and represent the bank at key industry events.
• Frequent use of computer and office equipment for presentations and financial analysis.

Compliance Statement

The associate is responsible for meeting all compliance requirements imposed on First Financial Bank by State and Federal law and regulation, as well as all related First Financial Bank policies and procedures. This includes all Bank Secrecy Act, Anti-Money Laundering, OFAC and Suspicious Activity reporting requirements, as well as all other lending and deposit compliance requirements.

Development and Training Pay Range: $120,000/year to $165,000/year

Benefits

We have relevant, thoughtful benefits and programs that support every aspect of our associates' holistic wellbeing. Please review our Benefits Guide.

Incentive Eligibility All roles are incentive eligible with the exception of Co-Op, Intern, or Student positions.

It is our policy to not discriminate against any individual in violation of federal, state, and local laws as it relates to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran/military service, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are an E-Verify Employer.

At first financial bank, our mission is clear: to be the best bank to do business with, the best place to work, and the best financial partner for our shareholders and the communities we serve.

We believe that how we work is just as important as what we achieve. That's why we're guided by core values that shape everything we do: Doing the right thing Teamwork Mutual respect Wellbeing Excellence

Our success starts with our people. We know that when our associates are talented, engaged, and supported, they create outstanding results. If you're looking to be part of a team that values integrity, inclusion, and collaboration—and where your growth matters—you’ll find your future here.