Strategic Planning Leader — Growth & Partnerships

First Western; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

First Western Trust is seeking an Executive Director, Strategic Planning to partner with the President and CEO, directing enterprise-wide initiatives that drive growth and performance. You will shape strategy, coordinate cross-functional programs, and provide senior-level insights to guide investments, partnerships, and market expansion.

The role emphasizes building client and community relationships, leading strategic planning, and championing organizational change to enhance client experience

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field (required).
• 15+ years of experience planning and executing strategic objectives in a growing and evolving organization.
• 10-15 years of strategic leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of strategic planning, organizational development, and business growth strategies.
• Exceptional executive presence and ability to influence senior leaders, board members, and stakeholders.
• Advanced business acumen with experience evaluating market opportunities, partnerships, and investments.
• Proven relationship-building, networking, and business development skills.
• Strong project management and change leadership capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Knowledge of banking, financial services, and regulatory environments.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic partner to the President and CEO, leading high-priority initiatives, special projects, and enterprise-wide efforts that advance the organization's strategic objectives.
• Manage and coordinate cross-functional initiatives on behalf of the President, ensuring accountability, timely execution, effective communication, and achievement of desired outcomes.
• Identify, evaluate, and develop new growth opportunities, including strategic partnerships, client acquisition opportunities, market expansion initiatives, and revenue-generating activities.
• Build and enhance the bank's reputation within the communities it serves by cultivating relationships with business leaders, centers of influence, community organizations, and industry groups.
• Represent the bank at industry, civic, philanthropic, and business events to strengthen brand awareness, expand referral networks, and generate opportunities for new client and associate relationships.
• Partner with executive leadership to attract and engage high-performing talent, support recruitment efforts, and build relationships with prospective associates who align with the organization's culture and growth objectives.
• Facilitate strategic planning efforts, monitor progress against corporate goals, and provide executive-level reporting and recommendations to the President, CEO, and senior leadership team.
• Lead the development of business cases, market assessments, and strategic analyses to support investment decisions, operational improvements, and organizational growth initiatives.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Executive presence

Relationship building

Communication

Change leadership

Project management

Analytical thinking

Banking knowledge

Business development

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field

Job description

First Western Trust is seeking an Executive Director, Strategic Planning to partner with the President and CEO, directing enterprise-wide initiatives that drive growth and performance. You will shape strategy, coordinate cross-functional programs, and provide senior-level insights to guide investments, partnerships, and market expansion.

The role emphasizes building client and community relationships, leading strategic planning, and championing organizational change to enhance client experience