Retail Management Development Associate

JOB SUMMARY

The Management Development Associate within the Illinois Market participates in a structured, accelerated development program designed to prepare future leaders within Retail Banking at Peoples Bank. This immersive program offers hands-on experience across key banking functions, emphasizing leadership development, operational excellence, and community engagement. Ideal candidates have at least three years of professional experience-preferably in banking, financial services, or customer-facing roles-and are ready to advance into leadership. Peoples Bank is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging (DEIB) environment for all employees. This position may be located in Indiana and Illinois.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in a 12-18-month rotational program across departments such as Lending, HR, Legal & Compliance, Operations & IT, Marketing, Business Development, Finance, and Retail Banking.
• Attend structured training sessions (virtual and in-person) covering banking operations and leadership skills.
• Shadow and support branch and department leaders to gain insight into strategic decision-making and team management.
• Demonstrate professionalism and build productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Foster a positive team environment and uphold Peoples Bank's values.
• Maintain regular check-ins with the Group Leader to provide program updates.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory and compliance standards.
• Support Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance by following internal controls and maintaining accurate records in line with audit requirements.
• Contribute to community outreach and represent the bank at local events.
• Complete cap stone presentation on leadership plans and present to Retail Banking Leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of banking experience with demonstrated progression in responsibilities.
• At least 1 year of supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and eager to learn and grow.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with banking systems or CRM tools is a plus.
• Must have a smartphone (iOS or Android) that meets the Bank's IT security requirements.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of the program, associates will be considered for placement in a leadership role within Retail Banking, based on performance, business needs, and qualifications. Participants will receive mentorship, regular performance evaluations, and will be required to travel between branches or departments as part of their development.

ABOUT US

For over a century, Peoples Bank has served as a cornerstone of customer commitment, helping our communities thrive and continuously supporting our community members. Proudly bearing the Finward name as a Finward Company, our logo symbolizes our unwavering dedication to financial excellence, advanced technology, and elevating the customer journey.

Headquartered in Munster, Indiana, Peoples Bank offers an extensive array of consumer, business, and wealth management solutions, alongside cutting-edge digital banking services. With 26 conveniently located Peoples Banking Centers spread across Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland, we uphold a tradition of delivering top-notch performance to our valued residents.

At Peoples Bank, we are driven by a passion for fostering success within our customer base and communities. Anchored in our core values of Stability, Integrity, Community, and Excellence, we are committed to building strong partnerships with our customers and communities to help them achieve financial success. Through innovative engagement and technology, we ensure an exceptional customer experience at every turn.

For more information on benefits visit the Careers page of our company website at https://www.ibankpeoples.com/resources/careers.

Peoples is an Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Equal Housing Lender/ Member FDIC