Role Overview for SVP, Commercial Lending with a Regional Bank – Denver, CO
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, growth-oriented regional bank in their search for a dynamic and experienced Senior Vice President (SVP) of Commercial Lending. Based in the vibrant economic hub of Denver, Colorado, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity for a seasoned banking professional to shape the future of the bank’s commercial and industrial (C&I) lending division. The successful candidate will be a strategic leader, a proven business developer, and an exceptional relationship manager, responsible for driving significant portfolio growth and upholding the bank’s commitment to superior credit quality and client service.
As the SVP, you will be at the forefront of the bank’s expansion in the competitive Denver market. You will inherit a solid portfolio and a talented team, with the mandate to expand market share by targeting middle-market companies across a diverse range of industries. This role requires a deep understanding of the local economic landscape, a robust network of professional contacts, and the ability to structure complex credit facilities that meet the evolving needs of sophisticated commercial clients. You will not only lead the lending team but also serve as a key member of the bank’s senior leadership, contributing to overall strategic planning, risk management, and market positioning. This is a career-defining role for a leader who thrives on building teams, forging lasting client partnerships, and delivering exceptional financial results in a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Commercial Lending with a Regional Bank – Denver, CO
The SVP of Commercial Lending will have a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing strategic leadership, business development, credit risk management, and team mentorship. Your success will be measured by your ability to drive profitable growth, maintain a high-quality loan portfolio, and cultivate a high-performing team culture.
Strategic Leadership & P&L Management
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive strategic plan for the Commercial Lending division that aligns with the bank’s overall objectives. Assume full P&L responsibility for the department, including budgeting, forecasting, and managing profitability. Set ambitious yet achievable goals for loan production, portfolio growth, fee income, and net interest margin.
Business Development & Market Expansion
Proactively source, develop, and close new, profitable commercial loan relationships. Actively call on prospective clients and Centers of Influence (COIs), including CPAs, attorneys, and business brokers, to generate a consistent pipeline of high-quality lending opportunities. Represent the bank at industry events, community functions, and professional networking groups to enhance its brand visibility and reputation in the Denver market.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of Commercial Lenders, Portfolio Managers, and Credit Analysts. Establish clear performance expectations, provide regular coaching and feedback, and foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Guide the team in complex deal structuring, negotiation, and relationship management.
Advanced Credit Underwriting & Structuring
Oversee and personally engage in the structuring of complex credit facilities for middle-market clients. This includes term loans, lines of credit, asset-based lending, and owner-occupied commercial real estate. Ensure all loan proposals are thorough, well-documented, and present a clear risk-reward analysis.
Portfolio Management & Credit Quality
Take ultimate responsibility for the health and performance of the commercial loan portfolio. Work closely with the portfolio management team to monitor existing loans, ensure timely collection of financial information, and proactively identify and address potential credit weaknesses. Ensure adherence to loan covenants and timely completion of annual reviews.
Risk Management & Compliance
Champion a strong credit culture within the team. Ensure all lending activities are conducted in strict compliance with the bank’s credit policies, procedures, and all applicable state and federal regulations. Effectively present and defend credit recommendations to the loan committee and senior management, demonstrating a masterful understanding of associated risks and mitigants.
Client Relationship Management
Cultivate and deepen relationships with key commercial clients, serving as a trusted advisor for their comprehensive banking needs. Go beyond lending to identify opportunities for cross-selling other bank products and services, such as treasury management, wealth management, and private banking, to provide holistic financial solutions.
Requirements for the SVP, Commercial Lending with a Regional Bank – Denver, CO
We are seeking a highly accomplished and results-oriented leader with a proven track record of success in commercial banking. The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of analytical rigor, sales acumen, and inspirational leadership.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in commercial banking, with at least 5 years in a significant leadership or team management role.
Market Knowledge
Must have a deep and demonstrable understanding of the Denver and greater Colorado business environment, including key industries, economic drivers, and competitive landscape. An existing, portable network of local business contacts and COIs is essential.
Credit Expertise
Formal credit training and extensive experience in commercial credit analysis, underwriting, and loan structuring are mandatory. The candidate must possess expert-level skills in analyzing financial statements, assessing cash flow, and evaluating collateral for middle-market companies.
Lending Acumen
Proven expertise in various forms of commercial financing, including a deep understanding of commercial and industrial (C&I) lending, asset-based lending, and owner-occupied Commercial Real Estate (CRE) financing.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop a high-performing sales and service team. Must be able to inspire trust, motivate direct reports, and foster a positive and productive work environment.
Communication & Negotiation Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Must be a polished and persuasive presenter, capable of effectively communicating with C-level executives, business owners, and internal stakeholders. Superior negotiation skills are a must.
Business Acumen
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Must be able to analyze market trends, identify new opportunities, and make sound business decisions that drive profitability and mitigate risk.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the employer. Includes access to wellness programs and employee assistance programs.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and personal days, in addition to paid company holidays.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to your career advancement, with opportunities for ongoing professional development, leadership training, and tuition reimbursement for relevant coursework and certifications.
Community Involvement
Paid time off for volunteering and company-sponsored community service events, reflecting a commitment to the local community.
Additional Perks
Potential for a relocation assistance package for exceptional candidates, life and disability insurance, and other banking-related perks.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this search. If you are a visionary commercial banking leader with the experience and drive to make a significant impact in the Denver market, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments.
All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
To learn more about our expertise in this sector and view other opportunities, please visit our Banking & Financial Services Practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.
