A well-capitalized community bank in southern Illinois is seeking a Vice President, Commercial Lending to support and grow its commercial and small-business portfolio within its established footprint. This is a relationship-driven VP role designed for an experienced commercial lender who wants autonomy, visibility, and influence without formal team management. The role is ideal for a lender who prefers to stay hands-on with clients, credit, and the community while operating with meaningful lending authority.
The Vice President of Commercial Lending is responsible for originating, structuring, underwriting, and managing commercial loans while maintaining strong credit quality and long-term customer relationships. The role partners closely with senior leadership. This is a highly visible position within a smaller-bank environment where reputation, judgment, and community presence matter.
Originate, structure, underwrite, and manage commercial loans, including C&I and owner-occupied CRE
Build and maintain strong relationships with local business owners and COIs
Drive sustainable loan and deposit growth within the bank’s footprint
Maintain asset quality through disciplined underwriting and proactive portfolio management
Monitor delinquencies and address stressed credits in collaboration with leadership
Operate with sound judgment and independence within assigned lending authority
7+ years of commercial or business lending experience
Strong underwriting and credit analysis skills
Experience managing a commercial loan portfolio independently
Relationship-focused community banking mindset
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field
Base Salary: Up to $145,000, commensurate with experience, portfolio scope, and overall impact
Incentive Compensation: Performance-based bonus opportunity
Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance; Life Insurance & AD&D; Long-Term Disability / Salary Continuance; 401(k); Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Paid Leave (Illinois compliant); Paid Holidays
Strong local decision-making and credit authority
Visible role within a community-focused institution
Ideal for a seasoned lender who values relationships over hierarchy
Qualified professionals interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out directly for a confidential discussion.
Contact: 📧 crystal.fryers@gogpac.com
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
