Strategic Commercial Banking Partner

First Financial Bank NA; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

401(k) match

ESOP

Paid time off

Job summary

First Financial Bank is seeking a Commercial Relationship Manager III in Fort Wayne, IN to grow our commercial portfolio and deliver tailored financial solutions that help businesses thrive.

This role blends relationship development with credit execution, offering the chance to build a book of business, manage loans end-to-end, and advance toward senior leadership within a supportive, growth-oriented culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in commercial lending, credit analysis, audit, or finance.
• Proven ability to develop new business, cultivate referral sources, and grow client relationships.
• Experience managing complex credits and working independently in a results-driven environment.
• Strong understanding of commercial lending principles, underwriting, and risk management.
• Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales goals, including prospecting and client retention.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability occasionally to work at various locations within driving distance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment with a flexible schedule.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 75% of an eight (8) hour workday.
• lAbility to review information and details at close range (within a few feet).

Responsibilities

• Develop new business relationships: Prospect, cultivate, and grow relationships with new and existing commercial clients to expand loan and deposit portfolios.
• Originate commercial loans: Structure and present lending solutions that align with client needs and Bank policies.
• Underwrite credit requests: Analyze financial statements, cash flow, and collateral to assess risk and determine appropriate loan structures.
• Close and manage loans: Oversee the full loan lifecycle from approval through closing, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and Bank requirements.
• Build deposit relationships: Identify and deliver deposit and treasury solutions that strengthen client relationships and support growth.
• Manage portfolio performance: Monitor credit quality, maintain accurate risk ratings, and ensure ongoing compliance within your portfolio.
• Advise business clients: Provide insight on business trends, financial strategies, and economic conditions impacting client operations.
• Execute sales strategies: Develop and maintain client call plans, conduct sales presentations, and drive consistent pipeline activity.
• Cross-sell banking solutions: Identify opportunities to connect clients with additional products and specialized banking services.
• Collaborate across teams: Partner with credit, treasury, retail, and other internal teams to deliver comprehensive client solutions.
• Maintain client records: Ensure all customer files, documentation, and reporting are accurate and up to date.

Job description

First Financial Bank is seeking a Commercial Relationship Manager III in Fort Wayne, IN to grow our commercial portfolio and deliver tailored financial solutions that help businesses thrive.

This role blends relationship development with credit execution, offering the chance to build a book of business, manage loans end-to-end, and advance toward senior leadership within a supportive, growth-oriented culture.