Junior Business Development Officer (SBA)

Description

About us:

ConnectOne Bank proves that putting people first is a better way to do business. At ConnectOne, we’re builders — of businesses, communities, and equity. Most importantly, we’re building opportunities. Our mission is to ensure our employees feel empowered to make important decisions, reach their potential and truly make an impact.

ConnectOne is a growth organization by design; it is part of our DNA and we take pride in seeing our employees grow with us. Founded in 2005 by an entrepreneur, we have grown into a high-performing commercial bank, inspiring a new model for our industry’s future. By embracing technology and all the ways it can help us become a world-class service organization, we support small business owners by fueling their mission. 

People First is the blueprint for our culture. It is at the foundation of everything we do and the decisions we make. At ConnectOne, you have the opportunity to be a part of a dynamic culture and team. Develop your forward-thinking skills, thrive in an entrepreneurial setting, and succeed at “a better place to be”. 

ConnectOne Bank is an Equal Housing and Equal Opportunity Lender, and a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

About this role:

As a Junior Business Development Officer (SBA), you will play an integral role in supporting our SBA lending efforts by working with internal and external referral sources, identifying new business opportunities, cultivating relationships with potential clients, and assisting in the loan origination and underwriting process. You will work closely with the senior BDO team to promote SBA loan products and services while providing top-notch customer service to clients.

In this role you will: 

• Support the Bank’s “People First” focus and rules of engagement-maintaining a professional demeanor, working as an active member of the CNOB team, providing all clients excellent service, always striving to make CNOB “A Better Place to Be”.
• Assist in identifying and cultivating new business opportunities for SBA loans.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with potential clients, referral partners, and industry contacts.
• Conduct market research to identify trends and business opportunities within the SBA lending space.
• Support the senior BDO team in managing client accounts and driving loan production.
• Assist with loan applications, documentation, and processing as required.
• Monitor the progress of deals and maintain a high level of communication with clients.
• Prepare and present loan proposals and information packages.
• Attend industry events, networking functions, and meetings as needed.
• Stay current on SBA guidelines, lending products, and industry trends.

Must haves: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• 1-2 years of experience in business development, sales, or financial services (SBA lending experience preferred).
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Bonus Points For:

• Knowledge of SBA loan products and regulations is a plus.

Additional information

Benefits:

• World class health, vision, and dental benefits on day one
• 401k with employer match
• Hybrid work from home (depending on role)
• Employee appreciation events (team building, softball games, food truck days, etc..)
• Employee assistance programs (EAP)
• Wellness programs (flu shot, preventive care, health programs and services discounts, etc..)
• Tuition reimbursement 
• Employee Discount perks
• CNOB Community Service Events

….and much, much more!

Studies have shown that individuals from underrepresented groups, may only apply to roles if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Roles evolve over time, especially with innovation, and you may be just the person we need. We hope you're open to learning new skills and growing with us. We encourage you to apply to continue making us “a better place to be!”

ConnectOne Bank is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate with respect to any term, condition or privilege of employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, marital status, or status of an individual in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

ConnectOne Bank also provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws. If an accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact Talent Acquisition.