Assistant Branch Manager

Bankwell Financial Group • Darien, CT

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Branch Manager is an operational leadership role responsible for branch operations, compliance, cash management, documentation accuracy, system integrity, and daily branch functions. The role ensures the branch meets quarterly audit standards and complies with internal policies and regulatory requirements. It also supports the Branch Manager by coaching team members and promoting an excellent in-branch sales and service experience for Small Business and Consumer customers. The Assistant Branch Manager leads and coaches employees in consultative customer conversations, while the Branch Manager leads broader business development efforts outside the branch, particularly acquisition of new-to-bank Small Business relationships. The Assistant Branch Manager assumes responsibility for the branch when the Branch Manager is absent. The position rotates between the Darien and Norwalk, Connecticut locations.

The role includes leading operational practices and training, overseeing cash operations and reconciliations, managing operational risk, maintaining audit readiness, validating account documentation, and ensuring security and fraud-prevention protocols. It also supports sales through coaching, customer engagement, referrals to internal partners, account servicing, new account openings, and promotion of digital and online banking tools.

Bankwell is a commercial bank with more than $3 billion in assets, serving businesses and individuals. The bank describes its approach as high-touch, high-quality banking and says it supports local communities through involvement with not-for-profit organizations. The position is classified as exempt. Salary is $70,000–$80,000 annually.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of retail banking operations experience; experience serving Small Business clients’ sales and service needs is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of branch operations, compliance, and audit procedures for Small Business and Consumer clients.
• Strong cash-handling and reconciliation skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage confidential information and maintain operational accuracy.
• Ability to engage Small Business and Consumer clients in consultative conversations, identify needs, and provide excellent customer service.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities and a team-focused mindset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and core banking systems; digital fluency is essential.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, including some Saturdays.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 10 lbs.
• Compliance with applicable banking regulations, completion of required compliance training, and adherence to relevant policies and procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Prior people management experience.
• Background serving the sales and service needs of Small Business clients.

Responsibilities

• Lead branch staff in following operational policies, procedures, and controls; support staff training and development to maintain accuracy and efficiency.
• Lead and ensure compliance with quarterly internal and regulatory audit requirements.
• Oversee branch cash operations, including ATM, vault, and teller cash, within prescribed limits.
• Perform and oversee daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations, including general ledgers and ATM settlements.
• Manage operational risk and maintain readiness for audits and inspections.
• Obtain and validate documentation for new account openings and account maintenance in compliance with Bank policy.
• Monitor compliance with security and fraud-prevention protocols.
• Assist with branch opening and closing and complete required checklists and documentation.
• Support the Branch Manager in coaching employees on Small Business and Consumer products and identifying sales opportunities through consultative conversations.
• Model effective customer engagement and help maintain a welcoming, professional branch environment.
• Use internal bank expertise and refer sales opportunities to the Branch Manager, Commercial Lending, SBA, and service partners when appropriate.
• Perform customer transactions, account servicing, and new account openings accurately, promptly, and with a focus on quality.
• Promote Bankwell digital and online tools to improve customer satisfaction.
• Assume responsibility for the branch in the Branch Manager’s absence.
• Comply with applicable banking regulations, including BSA, consumer protection regulations, and OFAC sanctions; complete required compliance training and follow applicable policies and procedures.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) option.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Telehealth and wellness resources.
• Supplemental insurance options.
• Pet insurance.
• Legal plan benefits.
• Benefits become effective on the first day of the month following the date of hire.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed