Director, Small Business Banking

*Please note, this position can be based out of any First Merchants regional headquarters, with a preference for Indianapolis, IN.

First Merchants Bank is seeking a Director, Small Business Banking to join our team. This position is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and executing strategies to grow the small business segment (businesses generating $0-$3 million in annual revenue) with a strong emphasis on deposit acquisition. The Director will oversee a team of business development officers, foster client relationships, and collaborate with internal partners to achieve market growth objectives. This position requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in small business banking, leadership, and community engagement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership and Planning:
  
  
  
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for deposit growth within the small business segment.
  • Set measurable goals for the team, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives.
  • Analyze market trends and client needs to identify growth opportunities and inform product development.
  
  
  
  
• Market Share Expansion:
  
  
  
  • Lead efforts to attract and retain small business clients with a focus on building core deposits.
  • Establish and monitor sales strategies for targeting small business prospects in key industries and geographies.
  • Promote client retention by deepening share of wallet by expanding existing relationships.
  • Grow small business lending portfolio with a specific focus on retaining core operating accounts.
  • Monitor and implement tactics related to market disruption.
  
  
  
  
• Team Leadership and Development:
  
  
  
  • Recruit, develop, and manage a high-performing team of small business development officers.
  • Provide coaching, training, and performance feedback to ensure the team meets or exceeds sales targets.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence within the small business banking team.
  
  
  
  
• Community and Market Engagement:
  
  
  
  • Actively represent the bank in the community, participating in business organizations, chambers of commerce, and local events.
  • Build partnerships with referral sources, including CPAs, attorneys, and community leaders, to drive business opportunities.
  • Enhance the bank's visibility and reputation as a trusted partner for small businesses.
  • Coach and develop a team of small businesses develop officers on center of influence development.
  
  
  
  
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  
  
  • Partner with internal departments such as treasury management, commercial lending, and private wealth to deliver comprehensive solutions for small business clients.
  • Advocate for small business client needs in product development and service enhancements.
  • Work closely with marketing teams to design targeted campaigns that support deposit acquisition goals.
  
  
  
  
• Risk Management and Compliance:
  
  
  
  • Ensure all business development and client relationship activities adhere to regulatory requirements and internal policies.
  • Monitor and manage credit and operational risks within the small business portfolio.
  • Maintain detailed reporting and analysis of team performance and market trends.
  
  
  
  

In order to be successful in this position, we require the following:

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, economics, or a related field.
• Seven (7) years of experience in small business banking, with a strong focus on deposit acquisition.

The following would be a plus:

• MBA or equivalent advanced degree.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and driving results.
• Deep understanding of small business banking products, especially deposit accounts, treasury services, and cash management.
• Strong small business credit skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans with measurable outcomes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficiency in Customer Relationship Management, (CRM) platforms and financial software.

First Merchants offers the following:

• Base Pay PLUS Bonuses
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401k
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Vacation/Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Additional Benefits

A little about us:

First Merchants is guided by a genuine philosophy of being a meaningful place to work and having a prosperous impact across all walks of life throughout the communities we serve, including consumers, businesses and other organizations. Our Vision, Mission and Team statement reflect and reinforce that authentic service philosophy.

Our Vision is:

To enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.

Our Mission is:

To be the most responsive, knowledgeable, and high-performing financial organization for our clients, teammates, and shareholders.

Our Team:

"We are a collection of dynamic colleagues with diverse experiences and perspectives who share a passion for positively impacting lives. We are genuinely committed to attracting and engaging teammates of diverse backgrounds. We believe in the power of inclusion and belonging."

Apply today to begin your career with us!