AVP - CRA and Fair Lending Officer

BANK FIRST•Manitowoc, WI

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The AVP – CRA/Fair Lending Manager is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and execution of the Bank's Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and Fair Lending compliance programs. This role ensures the Bank meets its regulatory obligations under CRA, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA), and Fair Lending laws while supporting the Bank's mission to serve the credit needs of its communities, including low-to-moderate income areas. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who combines technical compliance expertise with a genuine commitment to maintaining and enhancing a strong culture of compliance across the organization. This role is central to maintaining a strong, independent compliance function and supporting the Bank’s commitment to regulatory compliance, risk management, and ethical operations. The AVP – CRA/Fair Lending Officer has meaningful exposure to senior leadership, diverse business lines, and evolving regulatory expectations, making it an excellent opportunity for a compliance professional ready to step into a broader, enterprise impact role.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, accounting, law, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Minimum of 5 years of experience in bank compliance, risk management, audit, or a related regulatory role.
Demonstrated experience with HMDA/CRA data collection, validation, and LAR submission processes.
Strong working knowledge of CRA, HMDA, Regulation B, Fair Housing Act, and related fair lending laws and regulations.
Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify patterns, trends, and control weaknesses.
Intermediate to advanced analytical and critical thinking skills, including the ability to assess risk and evaluate complex regulatory requirements.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and professionally to various audiences.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic regulatory environment.
High degree of professionalism, integrity, and discretion when handling sensitive information.

Nice To Haves

CRCM designation preferred but not required.
Prior experience working directly with regulators (OCC, FDIC, Federal Reserve, or state banking department) during examinations preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintain and subject the Bank's annual HMDA Loan Application Register (LAR) and CRA LAR, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely filing in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Oversee data integrity processes throughout the year to support accurate year-end reporting.
Review, prepare, and maintain materials in support of the Bank's CRA and Fair Lending programs, including assessment area analysis, performance context documentation, and public file materials.
Serve as the Bank's subject matter expert on CRA and Fair Lending regulations, staying current on regulatory changes and emerging guidance.
Support examination readiness and serve as a primary point of contact during CRA and Fair Lending regulatory examinations.
Partner with lines of business to identify community development opportunities, lending initiatives, and investment/service activities that support CRA performance.
Conduct ongoing monitoring of the processes, procedures, and technology that support the CRA and Fair Lending programs, identifying gaps and recommending enhancements.
Perform fair lending risk assessments and analyses (e.g., pricing, underwriting, redlining, marketing, etc.) using statistical and comparative file review methodologies.
Evaluate the effectiveness of monitoring tools and systems, working with technology and data partners to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Report findings, trends, and risk indicators to senior management and applicable committees.
Provide training and guidance to staff and business lines on CRA and Fair Lending requirements and expectations.
Foster a team environment focused on accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
Promote and reinforce a strong culture of compliance throughout the Bank.