Role Overview for SVP, Head of Commercial Banking with a National Bank – New York, NY
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a prestigious, rapidly growing national bank in their search for a dynamic and visionary Senior Vice President (SVP), Head of Commercial Banking. This executive leadership position, based in the heart of New York, NY, offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of the bank’s commercial banking division in one of the world’s most critical financial markets. The successful candidate will be a strategic leader with a profound understanding of the commercial and industrial (C&I) lending landscape, a proven track record of driving significant growth, and the ability to inspire a high-performing team.
As the Head of Commercial Banking, you will assume full P&L responsibility for the New York region, overseeing all aspects of business development, relationship management, credit quality, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the bank’s President, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to the overall strategic direction of the institution. This is not merely a management role; it is a chance to build a legacy.
You will be empowered to innovate, expand the bank’s market presence, and cultivate deep, lasting relationships with middle-market businesses across the metropolitan area. Your leadership will be pivotal in solidifying the bank’s reputation as the premier financial partner for businesses in New York. We are seeking a candidate who is not only an expert in commercial credit and finance but also a charismatic leader who can foster a culture of collaboration, client-centricity, and sustainable success.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Head of Commercial Banking with a National Bank – New York, NY
Strategic Planning & Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the Commercial Banking division in the New York market. This includes setting ambitious yet achievable goals for loan and deposit growth, revenue generation, profitability, and market share expansion. You will continuously analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and economic indicators to adapt and refine strategies, ensuring the bank remains agile and ahead of the curve.
Leadership & Team Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team of commercial banking professionals, including Relationship Managers, Portfolio Managers, and support staff. Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture that prioritizes both client success and employee development. You will be responsible for recruiting top talent, providing ongoing coaching and training, setting clear performance expectations, and establishing a clear path for career progression within the division.
Business Development & Market Penetration
Act as the chief architect of the division’s growth engine. Personally drive and oversee business development activities to acquire new, high-value middle-market client relationships. Proactively build and maintain a strong network of Centers of Influence (COIs), including attorneys, accountants, and other business advisors. You will represent the bank at key industry functions and community events, enhancing its brand visibility and reputation as a leader in the New York commercial banking space.
P&L Management & Financial Oversight
Assume complete ownership of the division’s profit and loss (P&L) statement. Meticulously manage revenue streams, control expenses, and optimize profitability. You will be responsible for developing annual budgets, forecasting financial performance, and presenting regular performance reports to the executive team and the Board of Directors. Your financial acumen will be critical in making sound decisions that drive sustainable financial results.
Credit Risk Management & Portfolio Quality
Uphold the bank’s stringent credit standards and ensure the overall health and quality of the commercial loan portfolio. You will provide senior oversight on loan structuring, pricing, and approval processes, working closely with the Chief Credit Officer. This involves chairing or participating in loan committees, establishing risk tolerance levels, and ensuring that all lending activities adhere to internal policies and external regulatory compliance standards.
Client Relationship Management
Champion a client-first philosophy across the division. Ensure the delivery of exceptional service and sophisticated financial solutions that meet the complex needs of middle-market clients. You will personally engage with key clients to deepen relationships, serve as a trusted advisor, and ensure the bank is delivering its full suite of products and services, including treasury management, international banking, and capital markets solutions.
Requirements for the SVP, Head of Commercial Banking with a National Bank – New York, NY
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred. Formal credit training from a reputable institution is highly desirable.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience in commercial banking is required. This must include at least 10 years in a senior leadership capacity, with direct responsibility for managing a team of commercial lenders and a significant P&L.
Market Knowledge
Deep, demonstrable knowledge of the New York, NY metropolitan commercial banking market. The ideal candidate will have an established network of clients and COIs in the region.
Technical Expertise
Extensive experience and expertise in Commercial & Industrial (C&I) lending. Proven ability to structure complex credit facilities for middle-market companies across various industries. A strong understanding of commercial real estate (CRE) lending is also beneficial. Comprehensive knowledge of treasury management services, capital markets, and other commercial banking products is essential.
Leadership Acumen
A proven, inspirational leader with a track record of building, developing, and retaining high-performing teams. Must possess exceptional coaching and mentoring skills and the ability to create an inclusive and motivated team environment.
Business Development Prowess
A true ‘player-coach’ with a history of successfully driving new business acquisition and revenue growth. Must be skilled in strategic selling, negotiation, and relationship building at the C-suite level.
Financial & Analytical Skills
Superior financial analysis and credit underwriting skills. The ability to dissect complex financial statements, assess risk, and make sound, data-driven decisions is paramount. Must be highly proficient in managing a P&L and developing financial forecasts and budgets.
Communication Skills
Impeccable written, verbal, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including clients, employees, executive leadership, and the Board of Directors.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package that reflects this commitment. The comprehensive package for the SVP, Head of Commercial Banking includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Performance-Based Incentives
A lucrative annual bonus plan tied to individual, divisional, and bank-wide performance metrics.
Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
Meaningful participation in an equity or long-term cash incentive program designed to reward sustained contributions to the bank’s success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, with significant employer contributions.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and personal days, in addition to all federal holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing education, industry conferences, and leadership development programs to support your ongoing growth.
Executive Perks
Additional benefits may include a monthly car allowance, club memberships, and comprehensive relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this executive search. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and expressing your interest. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
If you are a visionary banking leader ready to make a significant impact in the New York market, we encourage you to apply. Please direct your application through our dedicated portal or connect with one of our senior recruiters specializing in our Financial Services Executive Search practice area. We look forward to reviewing your credentials and discussing how you can lead our client’s commercial banking division to new heights.
