VP of Commercial Lending

Job Title: VP of Commercial LendingLocation: On Site - Hartford, CT, United StatesSalary: $140000-$160000Skills: Commercial Lending, Credit Analysis, Business Development, Deal Structuring, Portfolio ManagementAbout the Banking Company / The Opportunity:Join a progressive and growth-focused organization in the banking industry, renowned for fostering a strong credit culture and empowering its leaders with high autonomy. As Vice President of Commercial Lending, you’ll have the unique opportunity to drive significant portfolio expansion, structure sophisticated deals, and become a trusted strategic advisor to middle market and large commercial clients. This role offers direct access to senior decision-makers and a performance-driven environment where your contributions can shine.Responsibilities:Originate, structure, and close commercial lending transactions across C&I, CRE, and owner-occupied assets.Build and manage a profitable portfolio of middle market and larger commercial client relationships.Develop and execute targeted business development strategies within assigned markets and industry verticals.Serve as a strategic financial advisor, delivering customized financing solutions to clients.Collaborate closely with credit, underwriting, and leadership teams to expedite deal approvals.Ensure strong asset quality through proactive risk management and portfolio oversight.Expand client relationships through cross-selling of treasury, depository, and other banking services.Must-Have Skills:7–15+ years of proven commercial lending experience with a strong originations track record.Must have SBA experience.Demonstrated ability to source, win, and retain middle market and/or large commercial clients.Expertise in structuring complex C&I and/or CRE transactions.Advanced credit analysis skills and comfort with deal complexity.Established local market network and deep community business relationships.Entrepreneurial mindset with a client-first, results-driven approach.Ability to operate with urgency, professionalism, and sound judgment.Nice-to-Have Skills:Experience with cross-selling ancillary banking services such as treasury and deposit products.Previous leadership or mentoring within commercial banking teams.Background working on high-impact deals across diverse industries.Familiarity with leveraging business development resources and expense support effectively.Desire for continued professional growth within a high-performance banking environment.