Commercial Lender

We are developing deeper connections between communities and their food systems. It’s our conviction that food systems are supported by a broader ecosystem of businesses, organizations, and institutions – going beyond farms and food businesses to include businesses driving meaningful impact on sustainability, equity, and wellness. We create impact by accepting deposits from individuals and businesses who want to drive positive and lasting change with their dollars...and then lending those funds to impact-oriented organizations. The word “mutual” in our name means cooperative; we are governed by our depositors, funded by those with a bias towards the long-term, and engineered to endure the test of time. Building bridges is core to who we are, with the ultimate aim of creating a more vibrant, sustainable and inclusive local food system.  

We’re looking for a “Commercial Lender”, but for us, that’s another name for a public ambassador for our mission and brand. Unlike traditional lenders, we pride ourselves on our deep commitment to food systems change, sustainability, and the local community—and we’re looking for someone who shares (and advocates in their community for) these values. Your expertise in structuring and executing loans, with an average loan size ranging from $500K to $3MM+, will be critical, but your primary focus will be driving growth by identifying and pursuing profitable lending opportunities.

You’ll be expected to actively source and develop new business opportunities, consistently maintaining a healthy pipeline of potential clients through targeted networking, referrals, and proactive outreach. You’ll be a skilled negotiator and dealmaker, able to influence and engage prospects, and position our brand as the go-to partner in the region. Your ability to drive business results while representing our core values will be key to your success in this role.

• Source and develop your own deal opportunities through proactive networking, strategic outreach, and active participation in key industry events and conferences. You will be responsible for building and maintaining a robust deal pipeline, targeting a minimum of 5-10 high-quality prospects per month within a specific industry vertical, with a focus on identifying new business development opportunities.
• This role is specifically focused on business development activities rather than credit analysis, and requires an individual who can cultivate relationships with potential partners, sponsors, and industry influencers to identify and secure new opportunities in a competitive market. Expect to engage in direct outreach, schedule meetings, attend industry events, and leverage market insights to bring in new leads and expand deal flow.  
• Originate, underwrite, and close commercial loans efficiently and effectively with a 12-month origination target north of $20MM.  
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients to understand their financial needs and objectives, leveraging industry expertise to tailor loan solutions accordingly. 
• Structure loan packages tailored to meet the unique requirements of each client while adhering to the bank's lending policies and procedures, quickly and efficiently.  
• Evaluate creditworthiness and risk factors associated with each loan application, utilizing alternative credit and underwriting standards when necessary. 
• Work collaboratively with internal teams, including credit analysts and loan processors, to ensure seamless loan processing and timely decision-making. 
• Utilize Walden Mutual Bank's concentric circles for referrals, consistently filling the top of the funnel with potential leads and opportunities. 
• Keep up to date with our products, services, and regulatory requirements.
• Complete required compliance-related bank training (and other related activities).

• Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree or relevant certifications preferred. 
• Minimum of 6-10 years of experience in commercial lending, with a proven track record of success in originating and closing loans, preferably within the food industry. 
• Expertise in structuring complex commercial loan transactions, particularly in the $1 million range, with limited information. 
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to assess credit risk effectively. 
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders. 
• Demonstrated ability to source own deal opportunities and maintain a consistent pipeline of potential clients. 
• Familiarity with banking regulations and compliance requirements related to commercial lending.

• Strong familiarity with government guaranty programs, including the SBA and USDA.  
• Experience or interest in heatlh, wellness, food, agriculture, and/or social and environmental responsiibility

• Health insurance coverage with dental and vision  
• Unlimited PTO 
• Allocated time for volunteering 
• “Quiet” Fridays 
• Life and disability insurances 
• Parental leave policy 
• 11 paid holidays 
• Walden-branded swag! 

Hybrid/remote work option available. During initial onboarding, you may be asked to be onsite at the Bank a few days per week. Following onboarding, we require a few in person team days quarterly.