Commercial Underwriter II

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If you are interested and qualified for this role, we invite you to apply.

The Commercial Underwriter II is expected to build proficiency in underwriting, developing the ability to complete the underwriting process from beginning to end with limited oversight. As the associate progresses in learning objectives, they will begin to underwrite increasingly complex commercial relationships to determine the creditworthiness of applicants within bank credit policies and guidelines. This role involves financial statement analysis, risk assessment and strategic decision making with guidance from the Associate Credit Officer and experienced underwriters. The position requires intermediate knowledge of underwriting principles and strong decision making skills.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Performs financial analysis and risk assessment for the commercial credit portfolio Within the Business Banking , Commercial & Industrial, Commercial Real Estate, or Specialty Commercial (Asset Based, Structured Cash Flow and ESOP) business lines of the Bank. Focus on new business and larger and/or more complex renewal transactions.
• Reviews commercial loan applications and analyzes credit information on commercial applicants to make a general assessment of applicant’s creditworthiness. Determines whether or not the proposed loan will conform to the Bank’s lending policy. Provide feedback to the Sales and Credit teams, as appropriate, regarding the structure, underwriting, and management of loans. Maintain on-going communication with all appropriate management on the status of transactions.
• Work directly with relationship managers and portfolio managers during underwriting process, including discussion with clients on credit and financial statement questions.
• Financial statement spreads and covenant testing for existing clients not assigned to credit portfolio analyst.
• Complete accurate Credit Memos for presentation to the appropriate credit authorities for decision-making on new loan credit requests, renewals, loan modifications, and periods credit reviews. Provide commentary within the credit memo as to underwriter support of such credit request or review.
• Assist in the management of workflow and assigned credits
• Attend local/ regional meetings

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration
• Three to five years of credit or Business Banking underwriting experience
• Proficiency in mathematical concepts, in order to apply to practical situations.
• Knowledge of advanced accounting principles and techniques
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, planning and follow-up
• Ability to work independently on multiple tasks without compromising quality
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office and other internet resources
• Team oriented

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

• Master’s Degree in Business

Level of Complexity and Scope

• Manages a broad range of commercial loan applications across various industries and risk factors. The complexity is heightened by the need to understand intricate business operations, financial health, and industry-specific risk

Degree of Independence and Decision-Making

• Moderate to high level of independence compared to entry-level positions. They are expected to make decisions on underwriting commercial loan applications, assess risk, and underwriting decisions with a certain level of autonomy.

Required Supervisory Responsibilities

• No direct supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of deskwork.
• Frequent use of computer, keyboard, phone and office equipment.
• Occasional moving within the office or to other locations within the building.
• Occasionally lifting and carrying light objects, typically up to 10-15 pounds.
• Occasionally reaching for items on shelves or in drawers.
• Clear and effective communication in person and over the phone.
• Ability to move within an office environment.

Compliance Statement

The associate is responsible for meeting all compliance requirements imposed on First Financial Bank by State and Federal law and regulation, as well as all related First Financial Bank policies and proce