Agricultural Lender - Alamosa, CO

Company Description

Ent Credit Union exists to improve the financial quality of life of the people we serve. This mission drives us every day, but we are more than our mission. We're also individuals using our unique abilities to make our organization, and the communities we serve, better than they were yesterday. We're a not-for-profit that puts people above profits and actively invests in our community. Our rapidly growing team is expanding our reach to serve more people throughout Colorado. To spread our mission far and wide, we need people like you. If you're interested in a paycheck with a purpose, apply with us today. Our people make the difference, and we truly believe you are our greatest asset.

Job Description

Ent Credit Union is proud to serve Colorado communities with a commitment to local values, personal service, and financial solutions that help members thrive. We're entering the agricultural lending space to better serve our rural members, farm families, and ag-based businesses. This is a rare opportunity to be part of something from the very beginning - shaping our ag lending strategy, building member relationships, and creating a legacy program that will serve generations to come. The Agricultural Lender will be the cornerstone of our new agricultural lending program to support and grow our presence in rural Colorado communities. You'll combine deep knowledge of agricultural financing with entrepreneurial drive to help stand up operations, develop products, and establish policy and processes that meet the unique needs of our agricultural community. This role is responsible for developing and managing agricultural and agribusiness loan relationships, providing tailored financial solutions to farmers, ranchers, and rural enterprises. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of agricultural operations, strong credit analysis skills, and a passion for serving rural economies. Why Join Us? Lead the creation of a brand-new lending program from the ground up. Work for a mission-driven credit union that values member relationships over transactions. Competitive salary, incentive opportunities, and excellent benefits. Opportunity to have a meaningful impact on Colorado's agricultural community.

Essential Functions

• Program Development: Collaborate with leadership to design and implement the credit union's agricultural lending program, including policies, procedures, and product offerings. Provide expertise on industry best practices, loan structures, and compliance for agricultural finance. Assist in selection and agreement on systems, tools, and processes needed to efficiently manage the agricultural portfolio.
• Business Development & Relationship Management: Develop and maintain strong relationships with agricultural producers, agribusinesses, and rural community stakeholders. Network within the agricultural community through events, associations, and local partnerships to grow awareness and trust. Serve as the primary liaison between the credit union and ag producers, ensuring their unique needs are understood and addressed.
• Loan Origination & Portfolio Management: Originate, structure, underwrite, and close agricultural loans, including operating lines, equipment loans, real estate, and livestock financing. Conduct thorough financial and credit analysis, including cash flow projections, collateral evaluation, and risk assessment. Monitor loan performance and proactively manage portfolio risk. Provide ongoing financial counseling and support to member-borrowers to promote long-term success. Provide for an informed credit decision based on academic background and experience.
• Community Engagement: Actively participate in community outreach, industry events, and local agricultural organizations to promote Ent's brand and lending capabilities. Educate members on financial management, succession planning, and sustainable ag financing to support long-term success.
• Bank Secrecy Act: Remains cognizant of and adheres to Ent policies and procedures, and regulations pertaining to the Bank Secrecy Act.

Qualifications

Minimum Formal Qualifications for this Position

• Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Business Management, Rural Development, Business Finance, Accounting, or Economics.
• 6+ years' experience in agricultural or commercial lending, with strong knowledge of farm and ranch operations. Required

Technical or Specialized Knowledge/Skills:

• Proven track record in business development and portfolio growth.
• Understanding of ag loan structures, FSA programs, rural development initiatives, collateral valuation, and regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge of agricultural operations, seasonal cycles, and industry-specific financial metrics.
• Ability to work indep