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# SVP, Head of Credit Risk with a Large Commercial Bank – Chicago, IL


Role Overview for SVP, Head of Credit Risk with a Large Commercial Bank – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, large-scale commercial bank, a pillar of the financial community with a multi-billion dollar balance sheet and a deep commitment to its clients and community. We are conducting an executive search for a transformative leader to join their executive team as the Senior Vice President (SVP), Head of Credit Risk. This is a critical, high-visibility role based in the vibrant financial hub of Chicago, IL. The successful candidate will be the principal architect and steward of the bank’s credit risk management framework, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the institution’s assets and enabling its sustainable growth.
As the Head of Credit Risk, you will be responsible for the strategic direction and effective execution of all aspects of credit risk management across the enterprise. This encompasses the entire credit lifecycle, from policy formulation and underwriting to portfolio management, reporting, and problem loan resolution. You will report directly to the Chief Risk Officer and work closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and other members of the executive leadership team to ensure the bank’s risk appetite is well-defined, understood, and adhered to. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned credit risk executive to make a significant impact on the future of a respected financial institution and lead a talented team of risk professionals in a dynamic market.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Head of Credit Risk with a Large Commercial Bank – Chicago, IL
The SVP, Head of Credit Risk will have a broad and impactful remit. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Policy Development
Develop, implement, and maintain the bank’s overarching credit risk strategy, credit policies, and risk appetite framework. Ensure all credit policies are robust, current, and aligned with the bank’s strategic objectives and regulatory expectations.
Portfolio Management & Oversight
Provide rigorous oversight of the entire loan portfolio, including Commercial & Industrial (C&I), Commercial Real Estate (CRE), and other specialized lending verticals. Actively monitor portfolio composition, concentration risks, and overall credit quality, implementing proactive strategies to mitigate emerging risks.
Credit Adjudication & Approval
Chair the senior loan committee and serve as the final authority on large, complex credit decisions. Uphold and enforce disciplined underwriting standards across all lending units, ensuring consistency and soundness in credit origination.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of credit officers, portfolio managers, underwriters, and analysts. Foster a strong risk culture characterized by accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Set clear performance expectations and provide ongoing coaching and development opportunities.
Regulatory Relations & Compliance
Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies (e.g., OCC, FDIC, Federal Reserve) on all credit risk matters. Ensure the bank’s full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Oversee the preparation and delivery of all credit-related regulatory reports and examination responses.
Risk Analytics & Stress Testing
Champion the use of advanced data analytics, modeling, and forward-looking indicators to enhance risk identification and measurement. Oversee the bank’s stress testing program (DFAST/CCAR, as applicable) and ensure the insights are integrated into strategic planning and capital management.
Problem Asset Resolution
Provide strategic direction and oversight for the Special Assets Group (SAG) or workout function. Ensure timely identification of problem credits and the development of effective resolution strategies to minimize potential losses.
Executive Collaboration
Partner effectively with business line leaders to support responsible growth and new product development. Collaborate closely with Finance, Treasury, Operations, and Audit to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to enterprise risk management.
Requirements for the SVP, Head of Credit Risk with a Large Commercial Bank – Chicago, IL
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and credible leader with a proven track record of managing credit risk in a complex banking environment. Specific qualifications include:
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in credit risk management within a commercial bank, with at least 7-10 years in a significant leadership role overseeing multiple lending areas. Experience in an institution with assets exceeding $10 billion is strongly preferred.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field is required. An advanced degree such as an MBA or a relevant professional certification (e.g., CFA, CRC) is highly desirable.
Technical Expertise
Deep and comprehensive expertise in commercial credit analysis, underwriting, and portfolio management across various asset classes, including C&I and CRE. A strong understanding of loan structuring, legal documentation, and workout strategies.
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive, hands-on experience interacting with banking regulators and a thorough knowledge of the regulatory landscape. In-depth understanding of regulatory frameworks from bodies like the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the FDIC, and the Federal Reserve is essential.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the proven ability to build, inspire, and lead a large team. Must possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex credit risk issues clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including the Board of Directors.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
A strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to balance risk and reward effectively. Demonstrates sound judgment, integrity, and a commanding executive presence.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and participation in the long-term incentive plan (LTIP).
Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your eligible dependents. Access to comprehensive wellness programs, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and other health resources.
Retirement Planning
A generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with a substantial company match to help you prepare for your future.
Work-Life Integration
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, paid company holidays, and a commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for continued professional development, including executive coaching, industry conference attendance, and relevant certifications.
Relocation
A comprehensive executive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Chicago area.
How to Apply
This is a retained executive search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. We invite qualified and interested candidates to submit their resumes for confidential consideration. Due to the sensitive nature of this senior-level search, all inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost discretion.
To express your interest, please apply through our secure portal. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit JRG Partners’ Financial Services Practice page. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exceptional leadership opportunity.