Logo
HEDCO, Inc.

Chief Lending Officer

HEDCO, Inc., Hartford, Connecticut, us, 06112


The Chief Lending Officer (CLO) is responsible for developing and managing the strategic direction of the lending function, ensuring a strong portfolio of loans while maximizing community impact and minimizing risk. The CLO oversees all lending activities, including micro-loans, small business loans, community development loans and grants and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. This role plays a key part in enhancing customer relationships and supporting business growth through innovative and competitive lending products and services.

The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep understanding of lending practices, risk management, and regulatory compliance. The CLO will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing lending strategies, ensuring financial performance, and fostering a culture of excellence within the lending team.

Key Responsibilities:

Managing Loan Portfolios for Mission-Aligned Programs:

Oversee loans and financial services that support HEDCO’s goals, which may include microloans, small business loans, community development loans, or grants, ensuring they align with the organization’s mission.

Developing Mission-Driven Lending Strategies:

Create and implement lending policies and programs that target underserved communities and economic growth or support social impact, balancing financial viability with social objectives.

Ensuring Compliance with Regulations:

Ensures all lending activities follow federal, state, and any industry-specific regulations. Nonprofits often have additional regulatory scrutiny, so compliance is essential.

Risk Management and Sustainability:

Carefully manages credit risks and ensures that lending programs are sustainable, sometimes working with donor or grant-funded resources.

Reporting to Leadership and Funders:

Provide updates to senior leadership and sometimes to funders, showing the impact and financial health of the loan programs and how they support the mission.

Grant and Funding Alignment:

Work with grant writers or fundraising staff to align loan programs with potential funding sources and ensure that grants are used effectively.

Community and Client Relationships:

Engage closely with community organizations, partners, and stakeholders, focusing on education and support to help borrowers succeed.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, or related field required. MBA or advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

Minimum of 10 years of experience in lending, with at least 5 years in a senior management or executive position with an understanding of non-profit accounting practices.

Skills & Abilities:

Deep understanding of credit analysis, lending processes, and risk management.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build relationships at all levels.

Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements and compliance standards.

Preferred (not required) Qualifications:

Advanced Certifications:

Certifications like Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), Certified Credit Executive (CCE), or Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM). Additional certification in risk management, such as Financial Risk Manager (FRM) or Certified Risk Manager (CRM).

Experience in Specialized Lending:

Background in a specific type of lending relevant to the organization (e.g., small business). Experience in managing a portfolio with a diverse range of loan products and borrower profiles.

Proven Record of Strategic Growth Initiatives:

Demonstrated experience in leading successful growth initiatives, such as expanding into new markets, developing new lending products, or launching digital loan platforms.

Regulatory and Compliance Expertise:

Deep knowledge of compliance standards, including those from federal and state regulators. Experience navigating regulatory audits and implementing robust internal compliance programs.

Strong Technological Proficiency:

Familiarity with loan origination software, data analytics tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Experience leading or supporting digital transformation projects, such as implementing automated underwriting or mobile lending solutions.

Executive-Level Leadership:

Experience working in or reporting directly to the C-suite or board of directors, with a proven ability to make high-level strategic decisions. Demonstrated success in team leadership, talent development, and succession planning.

Community Involvement and Networking:

Active in relevant professional organizations or local community initiatives, particularly in lending associations or economic development groups. Strong industry network that can bring added value to the organization, such as fostering partnerships or referral relationships.

Benefits:

HEDCO offers a competitive benefits package, including:

Generous paid time off and holidays

Hybrid work schedule

Paid parental leave

Health, dental, and vision

Employer paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability

401k match

Employee Development opportunities

Employer Paid Employee Assistance Program

Volunteer Time Off

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

#J-18808-Ljbffr