Role Overview for SVP, Commercial Strategy & Planning with a Major Bank – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, Tier-1 financial institution in their search for a transformative leader to fill the role of Senior Vice President, Commercial Strategy & Planning. Based in the vibrant financial hub of Chicago, IL, this executive position is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary strategist to shape the future direction and drive the sustained growth of the bank’s expansive Commercial Banking division. This is not merely a planning role; it is a critical leadership position charged with architecting the strategic roadmap that will navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape, capitalize on emerging market opportunities, and solidify the bank’s position as an industry leader.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Executive Vice President of Commercial Banking and will serve as a key member of the division’s senior leadership team. You will be the central force for strategic thought, leading the development, articulation, and execution of comprehensive business strategies that align with the bank’s overarching corporate objectives. Your influence will extend across all facets of the commercial bank, from product innovation and digital transformation to market expansion and client segmentation. You will be responsible for providing the analytical rigor and market intelligence necessary to make informed, high-impact decisions that enhance profitability, optimize resource allocation, and create long-term shareholder value. This role demands a unique blend of analytical prowess, creative thinking, financial acumen, and exceptional leadership skills to inspire a high-performing team and foster a culture of strategic excellence and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Commercial Strategy & Planning with a Major Bank – Chicago, IL
The SVP of Commercial Strategy & Planning will have a broad and impactful mandate. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Strategic Plan Development & Execution
Spearhead the annual and long-range strategic planning process for the Commercial Banking division. This includes conducting in-depth market analysis, SWOT analysis, and competitive landscape assessments to identify and prioritize strategic initiatives that drive profitable growth and market share gains. You will be responsible for translating high-level strategy into actionable, measurable plans and overseeing their successful implementation across the organization.
Market & Competitive Intelligence
Serve as the division’s foremost expert on market dynamics, industry trends, and the competitive environment. Proactively identify potential threats and opportunities, including emerging fintech disruptions, changing customer behaviors, and macroeconomic shifts. Staying ahead of the evolving regulatory landscape is paramount to ensuring the bank’s strategy is both ambitious and compliant.
Financial Analysis & Performance Management
Develop sophisticated financial models to support strategic planning, business case development, and investment decisions. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress and financial impact of strategic initiatives. You will be responsible for preparing and delivering compelling presentations on strategy and performance to the executive committee and Board of Directors.
Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration
Act as a strategic partner to leaders across the bank, including Sales, Product Management, Marketing, Technology, Operations, and Risk. Foster strong collaborative relationships to ensure strategic alignment and seamless execution of key initiatives. Your ability to influence and build consensus among diverse stakeholders will be critical to your success.
Business Transformation & Innovation
Champion a culture of innovation by identifying and evaluating opportunities for digital transformation, new product development, and process optimization. Lead initiatives aimed at enhancing the client experience, improving operational efficiency, and creating new revenue streams for the commercial bank.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Support
Collaborate with the corporate development team to identify, evaluate, and support potential M&A opportunities, strategic partnerships, and alliances that align with the commercial bank’s strategic objectives. Provide critical due diligence and integration planning support.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, lead, and mentor a high-caliber team of strategy and planning professionals. Foster their professional growth and create a collaborative, results-oriented environment that attracts and retains top talent. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and empower your team to drive strategic projects forward.
Requirements for the SVP, Commercial Strategy & Planning with a Major Bank – Chicago, IL
We are seeking a distinguished and accomplished leader with a proven track record of strategic success within the financial services sector. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Educational Background
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or an advanced degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field from a top-tier institution is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic planning, corporate development, management consulting, or a related field. A significant portion of this experience must be within the commercial banking or broader financial services industry. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership role, with a proven ability to manage and develop teams.
Strategic & Analytical Acumen
Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing successful business strategies. Exceptional quantitative, analytical, and financial modeling skills with the ability to distill complex information into clear, actionable insights for an executive audience.
Industry Knowledge
Deep and comprehensive understanding of the commercial banking industry, including products (e.g., C&I loans, CRE, treasury management), client segments, market dynamics, and the regulatory environment.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Superior executive presence with outstanding written and verbal communication skills. A proven ability to influence and persuade senior executives, build consensus across diverse teams, and present complex ideas with clarity and conviction.
Project Management
Experience leading large-scale, complex, cross-functional projects from conception to completion. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain the very best talent. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in an executive equity program (e.g., Restricted Stock Units, Stock Options) to align your success with the long-term growth of the bank.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to comprehensive wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) plan with a substantial company match and other retirement planning resources.
Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
Professional Development
A significant allowance for continuing education, professional certifications, and industry conferences to support your career growth.
Relocation
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Chicago area.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this executive search. If you are a strategic, results-driven leader with the experience and vision to guide a major commercial bank into its next chapter of growth, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and strategic accomplishments. To learn more about our dedicated recruitment practice in this sector, you can explore our expertise in Financial Services recruitment. We look forward to reviewing your application. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
