VP, Commercial Real Estate Lending & Relationships

ThinkingAhead; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

ThinkingAhead is seeking an experienced Commercial Banking Relationship Manager (VP/FVP) to manage and expand a CRE-focused portfolio in Kalamazoo, MI. Build relationships, assess credit, and deliver tailored financial solutions for business clients.

The role emphasizes collaboration with credit, treasury and retail teams, mentoring junior lenders as the team grows, and maintaining strong client communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field.
• 5+ years of commercial lending experience; CRE & C&I lending preferred.
• Proven ability to build relationships while managing a loan portfolio.
• Strong credit analysis and financial modeling skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow an assigned commercial portfolio (~$25–30MM, CRE) while maintaining asset quality and policy compliance.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking and referrals.
• Analyze financial statements and prepare credit packages for approval.

Skills

Relationship building

Credit analysis

Financial modeling

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation

Communication

Team mindset

Lending knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Bank lending software

Job description

ThinkingAhead is seeking an experienced Commercial Banking Relationship Manager (VP/FVP) to manage and expand a CRE-focused portfolio in Kalamazoo, MI. Build relationships, assess credit, and deliver tailored financial solutions for business clients.

The role emphasizes collaboration with credit, treasury and retail teams, mentoring junior lenders as the team grows, and maintaining strong client communication.