Commercial Relationship Manager II – Agribusiness Lending
Location: Hood River or The Dalles, Oregon (with coverage across the Columbia Gorge region)
Position Overview
Our client is seeking an experienced Commercial Relationship Manager II (CRM II) with a strong background in agribusiness lending to support and grow an established portfolio in the Columbia Gorge market. This role will manage an existing ~$50MM portfolio comprised primarily of agricultural clients, while also driving new business development across commercial and ag lending opportunities.
The ideal candidate will bring deep agricultural lending expertise, strong relationship management skills, and the ability to operate independently in a community banking environment. This individual will serve as the primary relationship manager for agricultural and commercial clients throughout Hood River, The Dalles, Bingen, and surrounding areas.
Key Responsibilities
Manage and grow an existing commercial/agricultural loan portfolio of approximately $50MM
Maintain and deepen relationships with orchard, crop, cattle, and other agricultural clients
Develop new commercial and agribusiness relationships through outbound business development efforts and referral partnerships
Structure and manage commercial real estate loans, lines of credit, and agricultural lending solutions
Conduct ongoing portfolio management including financial reviews, ag inspections, covenant monitoring, and risk management activities
Partner closely with retail branch teams to identify and capture new business opportunities
Serve as the lead commercial lender for the Gorge market, acting as the primary contact for incoming commercial referrals
Maintain strong market presence within the local agricultural and business communities
Portfolio & Market Focus
Approximately 70% agricultural lending exposure
Primary industries include:
Orchards (cherries and pears)
Wheat operations
Cattle/ranching
General agribusiness
Geographic coverage includes:
Hood River, OR
The Dalles, OR
Bingen & Goldendale, WA
Broader Columbia Gorge region
Qualifications
Required
5+ years of commercial lending experience
Strong agribusiness/agricultural lending background
Experience managing commercial loan portfolios independently
Demonstrated business development and relationship management skills
Knowledge of agricultural underwriting, inspections, and portfolio monitoring
Ability to work effectively across multiple branch locations and markets
Preferred
Existing ties to Oregon, Washington, or Pacific Northwest agricultural markets
Experience working with orchard and crop-based lending portfolios
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Agriculture, Business, or related field
Performance Expectations
Annual production goal of approximately $15MM
Maintain and expand existing client relationships
Continue portfolio growth within the market
Deliver high-touch service and strong community engagement
Why Join?
Established presence across the Columbia Gorge with branches in Hood River, The Dalles, and Bingen
Opportunity to inherit and grow a well-established agricultural portfolio
Strong community bank culture with long-term commitment to the region
High visibility role with autonomy and market leadership responsibility
Access to referral opportunities through an established branch network
Location & Lifestyle
This role offers flexibility to be based in Hood River or The Dalles, Oregon, depending on candidate preference. The Columbia Gorge offers exceptional outdoor recreation, strong agricultural roots, and access to both rural and lifestyle-oriented living environments. Candidates seeking acreage, ranch property, or an active outdoor lifestyle will find the region highly attractive.