Director of Credit Risk, SBA Lending

Job Summary

The Director of Credit Risk, SBA Lending, is responsible for identifying and managing risk in the Bank's SBA portfolio from within the 2nd Line of Defense architecture. Responsibilities include review and challenge of work generated by the Loan Production and Credit Management functions (1st Line of Defense) plus monitoring and reporting on critical risk metrics tied to the origination of loans in the SBA portfolio.

The Director of Credit Risk works collaboratively with the Credit Management function to ensure SBA loans align with the policies and risk appetite of the Bank. Credit approval authority subject to policy-based limits is included with this role. An in‑depth knowledge of the SBA SOP and banking regulations governing commercial lending are essential to successfully performing in this role.

• Approve Credit Memos, Modifications, Annual Reviews and Risk Ratings for loans within the SBA portfolio.
• Provide a credible and authoritative voice for the Credit Risk function when communicating with the 1st Line of Defense on all matters related to SBA lending.
• Produce, review and interpret management reports related to the SBA portfolio.
• Communicate with senior management individually and within the committee process on the risk metrics of the SBA portfolio.
• Continuous monitoring of all credit‑related portfolio trends, and banking rules and regulations applicable to commercial lending.
• Provide consent for preliminary loan proposals to enter the underwriting queue through the Opportunity Memo process.
• Ensure quality control and data integrity for inputs into decision‑making tasks.
• Maintain 2nd Line of Defense oversight of all functions related to SBA lending including tasks related to the closing and funding processes.
• Complete special projects as requested by management.
• Monitor, develop, and suggest revisions to workflows and procedures as necessary to enhance efficiency and minimize expenses.
• Identify potential for credit losses and mitigating risk accordingly, including transfer of individual credits to Special Assets.
• Ensure compliance with Northwest's policies and procedures, and Federal/State regulations.
• Navigate Microsoft Office Software, computer applications, and software specific to the department in order to maximize technology tools and gain efficiency.
• Work as part of a team.
• Work with on‑site equipment.

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance related degree preferred.
• 8 – 12 years of experience in commercial lending or credit administration including credit analysis, portfolio management, loan review and/or special assets required.
• Multiple years of experience working in a high‑volume SBA lending environment required.
• Credit approval authority within SBA lending department required.

Northwest is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.