VP, Credit Underwriting Team Lead

bout the OpportunityOur client, a well-established and growing regional banking institution in the Tri-State area is seeking an experienced Commercial Credit Underwriting Manager. This leadership role will oversee a team of commercial credit professionals responsible for underwriting middle-market and commercial banking relationships across a diverse portfolio of industries.The successful candidate will combine strong credit analysis expertise with proven leadership capabilities and a deep understanding of commercial lending practices, risk management, and regulatory requirements. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned credit professional looking to play a key role in the continued growth and success of a highly respected regional bank.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, mentor, and develop a team of commercial credit analysts and underwriters.Manage the underwriting process for commercial and industrial (C&I), owner-occupied real estate, investor real estate, and other commercial lending transactions.Review and approve credit memoranda, financial analyses, risk ratings, and loan structures within delegated authority.Partner closely with Relationship Managers, Market Executives, and senior credit leadership to support business development objectives while maintaining sound credit standards.Evaluate borrower financial statements, cash flow performance, collateral values, guarantor strength, industry trends, and overall creditworthiness.Ensure timely turnaround of credit requests while maintaining underwriting quality and consistency.Monitor portfolio trends and identify emerging credit risks.Recommend appropriate loan structures, covenant packages, and risk mitigation strategies.Participate in loan committee presentations and credit approval discussions.Ensure compliance with bank policies, regulatory requirements, and sound lending practices.Support ongoing process improvement initiatives and underwriting best practices.Assist in talent acquisition, training, and succession planning within the credit function.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field.6+ years of commercial credit underwriting experience within a banking environment.Strong knowledge of commercial lending products, credit analysis, financial statement analysis, cash flow modeling, and risk assessment.Experience underwriting middle-market and commercial banking relationships.Demonstrated understanding of commercial real estate lending and C&I credit structures.Familiarity with regulatory guidance, loan policy frameworks, and credit risk management practices.Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple business lines.Proven ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.Advanced proficiency in financial analysis and credit underwriting systems.