INDIRECT LENDING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER (Polk County)

This position allows for an optional hybrid work arrangement which includes a combination of both in-office and remote work on a weekly basis. To be eligible for the program, employees must complete a minimum of 90 days of continuous employment, be in good standing, and agree to the terms of a Work from Home Agreement prior to being eligible for hybrid work. The employee's request is subject to supervisor approval. Working locations and hybrid schedules may be altered at management discretion.

Position Summary

The Indirect Lending Business Development Officer is an independent, subject matter expert who plays a pivotal role in maintaining ongoing relationships with current Indirect Merchant Lending partners (aka Retail Sales Finance) and prospecting new partners to increase Launch's consumer loan portfolio. Responsible for outside sales and business development an assigned geographic territory. This position requires travel 4 days per week with 1 base day.

Principal Responsibilities and Duties

1. Responsible for prospecting new indirect retail merchant partners while maintaining the relationships with existing indirect merchant partners. Educates and provides ongoing training to new and existing merchant partners on processes, procedures, and guidelines pertaining to Launch's merchant lending products and services.
2. Develops and maintains strong relationships with current and prospective merchant partners. Proposes lending programs to attract clients and grow their business. Provides ongoing support to merchants and their clients during the loan application, approval, and servicing process.
3. Collaborates with Launch's Marketing Department to develop strategies for promoting the indirect retail partners and prospecting new merchants.
4. Meets and/or exceeds department goals as determined by Launch's strategic initiatives and objectives. These include, but are not limited to, outside sales, cross-selling, and credit quality goals.
5. Ensures lending decisions are made based on credit union policies and procedures.
6. Maintains an ongoing relationship with the merchants, branches, Lending Center personnel, Collections Department, and the VP/Consumer Lending Business Development by ensuring all questions/concerns are resolved in a timely manner to achieve service standards and department lending goals.
7. Recommends loan products and features to enhance current offerings. Is directly involved with the implementation of new indirect merchant products and programs.
8. Proposes changes to credit union policy or procedure regarding the indirect lending program.

Other Responsibilities and Duties

1. May assist with the daily operations of the Indirect Merchant Lending function by verifying the correct documents have been received from indirect partners.
2. Monitors competitor rates, terms and trends related to indirect merchant lending.
3. Assists with the implementation of new software/processes. Provides feedback and recommendations on processes to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
4. Creates/maintains a monthly tracking report of indirect loans.
5. Follows all Launch Credit Union policies and procedures.
6. Completes assigned compliance training in a timely manner.
7. Attends meetings and training sessions as required. Travel is required.
8. Performs other duties as may be assigned.

Education, Experience, and Skills Required

1. High school education or GED.
2. Minimum of five years of similar or related experience in retail sales finance and development.
3. Bilingual (English / Spanish) preferred.
4. Ability to learn and become knowledgeable of Launch's policies and procedures and the various regulations that govern consumer lending.
5. Must be goal driven, results oriented and independent. This position will be primarily remote requiring the incumbent to work with very little supervision or guidance. Must be able to prioritize successfully, manage multiple competing priorities simultaneously, adapt to change, exhibit sound problem-solving skills and be detail oriented.
6. Demonstrates strong consumer loan underwriting skills to include understanding of how to read a credit report and the necessary documentation needed to underwrite and support a consumer loan.
7. A significant level of trust and diplomacy is required, in addition to normal courtesy and tact.
8. Analytical, good judgment, decision making, and time management skills.
9. Strong communication, organization, analytical, decision-making, and time management skills.
10. Excellent referral skills.
11. Proficient with the use of software including Microsoft Word and Excel and ability to use a calculator. Ability and initiative to learn new technology.
12. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida driver's license in good standing at all times during employment.