JOB SUMMARY
Responsible for the collection of information for the purpose of generating and granting loan requests. Responsible for the development of associated business products, as well as for managing a loan portfolio for the express purpose of increasing balances and profit, and decreasing past dues, charge-offs, and other loan problems. Will provide accurate, helpful, and friendly handling of routine and complex transactions, including assisting the bank’s senior management staff, as requested.

RESPONSIBILITIES
• Develop an on-going personal business development plan that utilize a structured calling program that generates an agreed-to minimum of new loan growth and fee generation on a monthly basis.

• Collect necessary information from loan applicants so that loan requests can be understand properly underwritten; respond to the credit department’s questions pertaining to the underwriting process to determine the credit worthiness of loan applicants.
• Will provide information as requested on status of loans in process and approved but not closed (pipeline and backlog report).
• Make timely decisions on loan applications within granted authorities.
• Is responsible for the accuracy of loan grading, documentation, performance, clearing of exceptions, and follow-up on all loans in assigned portfolio.
• Will actively work existing customer base for referrals that garners new business from prospects and existing customers alike.
• Maintain a list of delinquent accounts within the personal portfolio and maintain a log of collection efforts. Contact delinquent accounts via telephone, personal visits or correspondence. Forward irreconcilable accounts for collector action or pursue legal action.
• Monitor loan repayment for loans in assigned portfolio and take necessary action to collect past due loans.
• Participate in community activities for the purpose of increasing the bank’s visibility and to seek out new business opportunities.
• Promote bank services, seek out referral opportunities (including consumer loans), answer customer questions, and direct customers to the appropriate personnel for assistance.
• Strive to create goodwill with customers and co-workers for the purpose of fostering teamwork, and the creation of business opportunities.
• Maintain a working knowledge of all legal and regulatory compliance issues as they pertain to this position.
• Loss prevention and security as applicable to this position.

REQUIREMENTS
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 lbs.

• Ability to understand and follow instructions in English.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time, twist, bend, sit, walk use hands to twist, handle or feel objects, tools or controls, such as computer mouse, computer keyboard, calculator, stapler, telephone, staple puller, etc., reach with hands and arms, balance, stoop, kneel, talk or hear.
• Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university preferred but will consider experience in lieu of degree.

• Proven track record in commercial lending, specifically for commercial and commercial real estate loan requests.
• Relationship management skills for commercial, small business, and personal relationships.
• Highly developed analytical and underwriting expertise and a credit quality focus.
• Portfolio management experience required.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.

THE COMPANY
Founded in 1912, Stearns Financial Services Inc. (SFSI) is a $2.4 billion well-capitalized, independent financial holding company based in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Specializing in nationwide small business lending and equipment financing, Stearns has maintained outstanding customer service, fast decisions, and customized finance solutions to their customers for decades.

Stearns Bank has earned itself a stellar reputation amongst customers and competitors alike. This reputation goes beyond just word-of-mouth, as Stearns has been recognized by the Independent Community Banker’s Association (ICBA) as a top-performing bank in the nation based on a 3-year average Return on Assets for banks $1 billion or more. Stearns has also been recognized by American Banker as a top-performing bank in the nation over a 3-year period for Return on Equity for banks from $2 billion to $10 billion.

As a Star Tribune Top Workplaces award recipient and an award recipient of the Minnesota Business Magazine 100 Best Places to Work in Minnesota, Stearns takes pride in their team and holds their employees in extremely high regard. We offer a competitive salary and benefit package including our Employee Stock Ownership Program-one of the best long-term incentive programs in the nation.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER /AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PLAN
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, or creed, religion, sex, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran’s status, status with regard to public assistance, or any other class protected by Federal, State, local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.