Senior Relationship Specialist

Columbia Bank; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 56,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Columbia Bank in Phoenix, AZ is seeking a Senior Relationship Specialist to act as the primary liaison with Commercial customers through onboarding and ongoing management.

You will coordinate underwriting, documentation, and closing of complex loans, monitor accounts, and ensure regulatory compliance while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma/GED (preferred)
• Bachelor's Degree in business, finance or related discipline (preferred)
• More than 10 years — banking, loan administration and documentation experience (Required)
• Solid loan administration experience with knowledge of complex lending structures, letters of credit, borrower-based lending, multi-phased construction and multiple collateral properties.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Onboard commercial customers and manage ongoing relationships.
• Coordinate underwriting, documentation and closing of complex loans.
• Prepare documents for audit and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Maintain accurate servicing system inputs and third-party documentation.
• Communicate effectively with customers and internal teams to resolve issues.

Skills

Relationship management

Communication skills

Regulatory compliance

Problem-solving

MS Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in business

High School Diploma/GED

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role:

Senior Relationship Specialist acts as a primary liaison with Commercial customers, during all phases of onboarding a new banking relationship. Manages and monitors existing Commercial customer relationships on an ongoing, day-to-day, and transactional basis working in close partnership with the business unit and other departments throughout the bank. Is considered a subject matter expert related to required processes and requirements needed to provide an exceptional customer experience. Partner with the Commercial Relationship Team to obtain and review information required for underwriting, documentation and closing of C&I (Commercial & Industrial), construction and term loans that are complex in nature, as well as all deposit accounts and other services. Set up, process, and monitor documents and files for package completion to meet specifications of a customer request and adherence to regulatory requirements. Independently prepare data input sheets and provide required information for customer relationships to be boarded on the banks servicing system(s). Maintain files with all required documentation for third‑party review and prepares files for timely audits. Work with attorneys and other financial or legal resources to negotiate accurate documents to fully protect the financial institution’s interests in the credit relationship. Set up and monitor loan and financial ticklers to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Responsible for ensuring all closing conditions are met and loans are closed within time frames. Works directly with the customer. Review and resolve a variety of customer problems/issues regarding bank products and services and facilitate processing of customer account maintenance and advance requests. Responsible for GL Certification which includes research, balancing and certification. Analyze property and liability insurance, title policy including title exceptions and UCC searches to ensure compliance with bank policy and procedure. Demonstrates compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and applies to designated job responsibilities – knowledge may be gained through coursework and on‑the‑job training. Keeps up to date on regulation changes. Follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual or job‑specific training. Maintain a working knowledge of Bank’s written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, Bank Security and other regulations as applicable to this job description. May be asked to coach, mentor, or train others and teach coursework as subject matter expert. Actively learns, demonstrates, and fosters the Columbia corporate culture in all actions and words. Takes personal initiative and is a positive example for others to emulate. Embraces our vision to become “Business Bank of Choice” May perform other duties as assigned.

About You:

H.S. Diploma/GED (preferred) Bachelor's Degree in business, finance or related discipline (preferred) More than 10 years — banking, loan administration and documentation experience (Required) Must possess the highest level of specialized experience and knowledge of the commercial department/function and proficiency in preparing complicated reports and/or documents. Solid loan administration experience with knowledge of complex lending structures, letters of credit, borrower‑based lending, multi‑phased construction and multiple collateral properties. Must have knowledge in real estate construction draw analysis, reconciliation and disbursement. Demonstrated ability to analyze title insurance commitment reports including title exceptions and prepares title/escrow instructions. Proven analytical and problem‑solving skills. Ability to provide backup to manager and provide direction to other associates as needed or requested by manager. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively with individuals and groups across the company to manage internal and external customer relationships. Proficiency with personal computers and related software packages such as Word and Excel, and other business machines.

Travel Requirements

Occasional

The pay range for this role is $27.09 - $40.00. The pay rate for the selected candidate is dependent upon a variety of non‑discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience, education, and geographic location. The role may be eligible for performance‑based incentive compensation, and those details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Primary Location:

Ability to work fully onsite at posted location(s). 2155 W Pinnacle Peak Rd Phoenix AZ 85027

Our Benefits:

We are proud to offer a competitive total rewards package including base wages and comprehensive benefits. We offer eligible associates comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), a 401(k)-retirement savings plan with employer match for qualifying associate contributions, an employee assistance program, life insurance, disability insurance, tuition assistance, mental health resources, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, access to an online discount marketplace, and paid vacation, sick days, volunteer days, and holidays. Benefit eligibility begins the first day of the month following the date of hire for associates who are regularly scheduled to work at least thirty hours weekly.

Our Commitment to Diversity:

Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview(s), please let us know by email: [e-mail].

To Staffing and Recruiting Agencies:

Our posted job opportunities are only intended for individuals seeking employment at Columbia Bank. Columbia Bank does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies and Columbia Bank will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resume submissions. Staffing and recruiting agencies are not authorized to submit profiles, applications, or resumes to this site or to any Columbia Bank employee and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited unless requested directly by a member of the Talent Acquisition team.

At Columbia Bank, we’re redefining what it means to bank and to build a career. As the West’s premier banking experience, we combine the strength and scale of a leading financial institution with the heart and mindset of a community bank. With more than 350 locations across eight states, we deliver relationship‑based service backed by regional expertise and resources that help families and businesses thrive.

Our culture is built on Do RIGHT, which means:

• Relationships: We create authentic connections with customers, colleagues, and communities.
• Impact: Every role here makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives and local economies.
• Growth: We invest in your success with career development, mentorship, and learning opportunities.
• Heart: We care deeply about doing what’s best for our customers and each other.
• Trust: Integrity and transparency guide everything we do.

Why work for Columbia Bank?

A strong, stable financial foundation with over $67 billion in assets and a diverse portfolio that supports flexibility and opportunity. A culture of belonging and purpose, where your ideas matter and your work has impact. Competitive benefits and flexibility designed to help you thrive personally and professionally. Community engagement that matters, from supporting local businesses to empowering youth through financial literacy initiatives.