Commercial Lender

A respected community bank in Kalispell, Montana, is seeking an experienced VP Commercial Lender to lead commercial lending efforts, develop new business, and strengthen client relationships throughout the market. This individual will oversee and grow a diversified loan portfolio while partnering with the Chief Lending Officer to support strategic growth, maintain strong credit quality, and contribute to the continued development of the lending team.

The VP of Lending will play a key role in originating and managing commercial lending relationships, expanding the bank's presence in the community, and identifying opportunities to grow both loans and deposits. This position is ideal for an established commercial lender who combines strong credit judgment with a proven ability to generate business, build lasting relationships, and support lending team development.

This is an outstanding opportunity to join a relationship-focused community bank in the Kalispell market, with the ability to make a meaningful impact on local businesses and the bank's continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Originate, structure, underwrite, and manage commercial and commercial real estate (CRE) lending relationships.
• Manage and grow a diversified loan portfolio across commercial, CRE, consumer, and residential real estate lending.
• Analyze financial statements, cash flow, collateral, and borrower risk to evaluate creditworthiness and structure sound lending solutions.
• Develop new business through prospecting, networking, referrals, and active community involvement.
• Expand existing client relationships by identifying opportunities for additional lending, deposit growth, and other banking services.
• Present credit recommendations to Loan Committee and the Board as needed.
• Partner with the Chief Lending Officer on lending strategies, portfolio growth, credit quality, and risk management.
• Mentor and support lending staff, contributing to their professional development and overall team performance.
• Monitor portfolio performance and ensure lending activities align with bank policies, regulatory requirements, and sound credit practices.
• Build and maintain relationships with local business owners, community leaders, and referral partners to support long-term market growth.

Required Qualifications

• 7–10 years of progressive lending experience, with significant commercial lending expertise.
• Proven track record of managing and growing a substantial commercial loan portfolio.
• Strong knowledge of commercial lending, commercial real estate, credit analysis, and loan structuring.
• Proficiency in financial statement analysis, cash flow analysis, collateral evaluation, and credit risk assessment.
• Demonstrated success in business development, prospecting, and relationship management.
• Experience growing loan and deposit relationships through a consultative, client-focused approach.
• Strong understanding of banking regulations, credit administration, and compliance requirements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, or a related field preferred.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced commercial lending professional looking to take the next step in their career with a leadership role in the Kalispell market. The VP of Lending will have the opportunity to influence lending strategy, develop client relationships, support the growth of the lending team, and contribute directly to the bank's continued success.

For immediate consideration, please contact Ciara Benson at Ciara.Benson@TheAgencyRecruiting.com.

About The Agency Recruiting

The Agency Recruiting is a specialized search firm connecting high-performing talent with growth-focused organizations across a wide range of industries nationwide. Through strategic and confidential partnerships, we help companies secure the leadership and professional talent needed to drive long-term success. All career opportunities listed on The Agency Recruiting's official website and LinkedIn page are verified and credible. Any postings appearing on third-party job boards are not validated by The Agency Recruiting.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Agency Recruiting is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.