The Role The Regional Manager, Lending provides leadership and direction to the regional office lending team(s) (lending sales and support staff), focusing on member service and lending administration to achieve the business plan, including quality sales while maintaining the appropriate financial risk profile balance. The Regional Manager, Lending provides strategy and leadership for the overall member experience and lending sales delivery while building a foundation for the team through performance coaching and effective goal setting.
What You Will Contribute- Lead and coach regional lending teams to execute business development and marketing strategies that drive growth while maintaining sound risk management.
- Develop, support, and monitor individual sales plans using market data to identify and capitalize on regional opportunities.
- Recruit, develop, and retain talent through performance management, coaching, succession planning, and fostering a strong, values-driven culture.
- Lead cross-functional collaboration across regions, field leadership, crop insurance teams, CSD, Association committees, and internal departments to align the lending channel, promote consistency, maximize cross-selling opportunities, and drive execution of key initiatives.
- Oversee regional office performance by monitoring financial metrics, credit administration, budgets, and operational processes to improve efficiency and the member experience.
- As needed, the Regional Manager may manage an individual loan portfolio by originating, approving, closing, and servicing loans while ensuring strong credit administration and positive member outcomes.
- Represent Farm Credit Illinois in the agricultural community by building relationships, participating in industry organizations, and supporting customer appreciation and outreach efforts.
What We Are Looking For Required Skills- Proven leadership, coaching, and collaboration skills with the ability to inspire, develop, and hold teams accountable.
- Strong knowledge of agricultural lending, credit extension, credit administration, and portfolio management practices.
- Strategic and analytical thinking skills with the ability to assess complex situations and apply sound judgment.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills across employees, leadership, and members.
- Ability to lead through change while fostering engagement, trust, and a positive workplace culture.
Minimum Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in business, finance, agriculture, or communication
- 7 years of experience in sales, agribusiness, credit analysis or crop insurance or equivalent education, experience, and skillset sufficient to perform the essential functions of the role
