Relationship Manager - VP Franchise Finance

At Associated Bank we strive to create an inclusive culture where different perspectives are valued and recognized as strengths critical to our success. If you thrive in an environment where your growth and development are encouraged and supported, then Associated Bank may be the right place for you.

Associated Bank requires you to directly represent yourself and your own experiences during the recruiting and hiring process. Associated Bank conducts a thorough background check on all new hires.

As a Relationship Manager – Franchise Finance, you will manage and grow a portfolio of franchise business clients by delivering tailored financial solutions that support their expansion and long-term success. You’ll partner closely with internal teams to deepen relationships, drive growth, and bring the full capabilities of Associated Bank to each client. This role offers the opportunity to build a specialized franchise portfolio while expanding your expertise and market impact.

Key Accountabilities

• Manage and grow a portfolio of franchise finance relationships, driving loan, deposit, and fee income growth.

• Develop new franchise client relationships through referrals, centers of influence, and proactive business development efforts.

• Partner with internal teams to cross-sell treasury management, capital markets, private banking, wealth management, and other solutions.

• Analyze client financials and business models to structure appropriate credit solutions in partnership with Portfolio Managers.

• Advise clients on banking trends, financial strategies, and growth opportunities using approved bank resources.

• Ensure strong portfolio administration and risk management in compliance with bank policies and regulatory guidelines.

• Represent Associated Bank in the franchise and local business community to strengthen brand presence and referral networks.

Education & Experience

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or equivalent experience

• 5+ years of franchise finance, commercial banking, or business-to-business sales experience

• Demonstrated success in relationship management, credit analysis, and non-lending product solutions

• Access to reliable transportation and ability to lawfully drive, if applicable

Preferred

• 8+ years of franchise finance or related banking experience

• Proven track record of portfolio growth and complex relationship management

Why You’ll Love Working Here

At Associated Bank, you’ll join a collaborative, relationship-driven culture that values expertise, integrity, and growth. We invest in your development through meaningful career paths, strong internal partnerships, and opportunities to make a real impact in the franchise community. Apply today to make an impact.

We welcome and encourage applications from individuals returning to the workforce, people with disabilities, candidates without a college degree, and veterans or those with military experience.

In addition to core traditional benefits, we take pride in offering benefits for every stage of life. 

• Retirement savings including both 401(k) and Pension plans. 

• Paid time off to volunteer in your community. 

• Opportunities to connect with others through our diversity-focused Colleague Resource Groups. 

• Competitive salaries with professional development and advancement opportunities. 

• Bonus benefits including well-being programs and incentives, parental leave, an employee stock purchase plan, military benefits and much more.  

• Personal banking, loan, investment and insurance benefits. 

Associated Bank serves more than 120 communities throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri and we consider our colleagues critical to our continued success. See why our colleagues continually vote us a best place to work in the Midwest. Join our community on Facebook, LinkedIn and X. 

Compliance Statement