Title: Director of Commercial Lending
Compensation: $200K - $250K salary plus bonus
Location: Minnetonka, MN

About the Job:

Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by our client to recruit a Director of Commercial Lending to join their team. Our client is a well-established financial institution with a strong community focus, known for delivering personalized banking solutions and fostering long-term client relationships.

This role leads commercial lending strategy, portfolio growth, and team performance while maintaining a strong focus on credit quality, profitability, and customer experience. It is a highly visible leadership position responsible for managing a team, driving business development, and shaping the direction of the commercial lending function.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

Provide overall leadership and accountability for the commercial lending function
Lead and develop Market Presidents and Business Bankers
Set strategic direction and drive execution aligned with organizational goals
Build and lead high-performing sales teams

Business Development & Portfolio Growth

Drive commercial loan originations and portfolio growth
Develop referral sources to increase loan volume, deposits, and fee income
Negotiate loan terms and structures; present credit for approval
Expand relationships by cross-selling financial products and services

Credit & Risk Management

Directly manage complex commercial credit relationships
Ensure high credit quality standards and sound underwriting practices
Maintain deep understanding of industry trends and competitive landscape

Operations & Compliance

Ensure adherence to all policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
Monitor business development activity, credit performance, and team productivity
Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver comprehensive client solutions

Community & Relationship Engagement

Represent the organization in community events and professional organizations
Promote strong customer relationships and a high-quality client experience

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field
10+ years of experience in commercial banking, with a focus on lending
5+ years of leadership experience managing teams
Proven success building and leading high-performing sales teams
Strong knowledge of commercial lending, credit analysis, and banking compliance
Excellent communication, relationship management, and negotiation skills
Strong analytical mindset with a results-driven approach

Preferred:

Master’s degree
Experience with a variety of loan structures (SBA, commercial real estate, equipment financing, etc.)
Cash management experience

Benefits:

Competitive compensation package
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plan with employer contribution
Paid time off and paid holidays
Opportunity to lead a high-impact business function and team

About Lakeside HR Group:

At Lakeside HR Group, we understand that finding the right job is essential for your career success. We are a boutique-style human resources consulting and recruiting firm dedicated to providing personalized, tailored solutions. When you partner with us, you are not just getting a recruiter; you are getting the entire Lakeside team working together to support your career goals.

Partner with us at Lakeside HR Group, where we are more than just a recruiting firm; we are your partners in achieving your career aspirations.