Job Description

DESCRIPTION/JOB SUMMARY

The primary function of this position involves providing loans which can primarily be processed and approved through scorecard lending to expedite service to customers. Key components of this function include business development, establishment of appropriate loan pricing / fees, and execution of satisfactory credit administration.  The responsibilities of the Loan Officer center on building strong relationships with business contacts and customers. This will be accomplished by creating relationships and networking with customers, prospects, business contacts and influencers. The Loan Officer will use his/her knowledge of finance and agriculture to provide "value added" financial services to customers and prospective customers based upon the customer's need for these products and services. The Loan Officer will be typically spending around 95% of time in the furtherance of his/her own sales, with typically 25% or more of time spent away from the office performing these activities. The Loan Officer will work in a local branch and be responsible for an assigned portfolio, servicing the needs of current and prospective customers. This position has no direct reports, however, in keeping at the forefront of our "hedgehog" of customer service, will work very closely with the Branch Team and employees in other market segments to effectively meet all customer needs. The Loan Officer will also ensure the branch office is maintained to present a professional public image. This employee must learn and live Carolina's Core Values, Key Business Principles, and Core Competencies to create a culture of greatness within CFC. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES

Essential functions of the job include, but are not limited to:

1. MARKETING, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, AND CONSULTING

   • Develops new business by actively pursuing new individual and business customers and by becoming a visible and involved member of the community. Incorporates outside sales as part of the marketing plan for reaching new customers.
   • Expands existing relationships by proactively researching customer needs, uses discretion and independent judgment in advising customers on business strategy and practices, and matching products and services to those needs. Pursues cross-sell opportunities with existing members.
   • Represents CFC at Trade Shows, local events, realtor meetings, civic organizations, etc.
   • Maintains a sales data base file to establish an ongoing sales and prospecting plan. Will have a commitment to individual sales goals.

2. MAKING LOANS, CREDIT ADMINISTRATION, AND LOAN PRICING

   • Interviews applicants, gathers and reconciles complete, accurate credit and financial data using the five credit factors under the guidelines of differential analysis. Determines credit risk and makes timely and accurate decisions. Establishes and renegotiates credit terms, when necessary. Inspects or appraises collateral as needed or applicable. Communicates credit decision to loan applicants. Will have a working knowledge of traditional underwriting practices, scorecard lending program, QUIC Credit as well as the credit delivery system.
   • Assures sound loans; appropriate documentation and underwriting; appropriate pricing and fees based on risk, terms, and servicing costs; and implementation of business plans in accordance with overall CFC objectives. Monitors specific, individually assigned loans and assures that the loans receive timely and sound servicing in accordance with overall CFC objectives.
   • Maintains acceptable credit administration rating on assigned portfolio.
   • Communicates effectively on loans requiring underwriting through the ACA's analyst team, relaying pertinent information and providing proper documentation to support an accurate recommendation. Ensures loans are approved per delegated authorities.
   • Participates in various seminars and credit training to maintain and enhance credit skills.
   • Ensures compliance with all required disclosures on both consumer and non-consumer loans.

3. SERVICING LOANS

   • Services loans in portfolio to retain high level of credit quality.
   • Reviews progress of loans on a periodic basis.
   • Makes periodic sales calls to existing members.
   • Calls on loan customers to evaluate management, inspect collateral and detect signs of potential financial problems.
   • Monitors delinquent reports and offers counseling to customers to bring accounts current.
   • Services loans, loan renewals, conversions, partial releases, etc.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education and/or experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Agriculture Economics, Finance or related field
2. 1-3 years' experience preferred
3. Demonstrated computer proficiency and familiarity with financial databases and spreadsheet applications
4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to employ diplomacy and tact with customers and prospects while articulating the benefits of Farm Credit. Self-starter; problem-solving & time management skills; knowledge of agriculture
5. Ability to be assertive and decisive in arriving at sound business decisions which serve the best interest of CFC and the borrower
6. Current awareness of economic developments and production technology affecting agriculture in the region
7. Travel to/from prospective customers' and members' businesses/homes, other CFC offices, associations, AgFirst or other facilities

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Farm or ranch background with related practical experience
2. Farm Credit experience

DETAILS

Candidates selected for interview will be contacted.  EEO, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.