Business Banking Sales Leader

KeyBank • Albany, NY

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Business Banking Sales Leader (BBSL) manages a team of field and virtual Business Banking Relationship Managers (BBRMs) who acquire new clients and expand relationships with existing business clients. In some regions, the BBSL also manages Team Leads who oversee a subset of relationship managers. The BBSL fosters a client-centric culture and continuous learning environment focused on developing, supporting, and retaining the sales team. The role partners with Retail Leaders Banking to generate small-business opportunities through consumer channels and with Private Bank Leaders to connect clients with the bank’s broader capabilities.

The position oversees the Business Banking function within an assigned region and leads sales efforts to grow a client base of companies in the Business Banking segment. It promotes the Business Banking value proposition and consistent sales processes, supports quality credit decisions and risk management, and drives a positive client experience and sustained business growth. The role is based at 66 South Pearl Street, Albany, New York, with in-office presence prioritized and flexible options available where work can be performed effectively in a mobile environment. Occasional travel, including overnight stays, is required.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of commercial lending experience.
• At least 3 years of leadership experience, preferably managing commercial lenders.
• At least 7 years of sales and business development experience in financial services, including client research, sales planning, and closing.
• Ability to routinely and frequently operate a motor vehicle with a valid driver's license.
• Ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing business banking teams.
• Expertise in identifying, pursuing, and closing new business opportunities with a customer-centric focus.
• Deep understanding of financial products, commercial lending, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Skill in building long-term client relationships and delivering service across small-business and commercial banking.
• Ability to implement actionable plans aligned with business goals and a strong risk culture.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field or equivalent experience.
• Leadership experience managing commercial lenders.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Business Banking function within an assigned region and lead field-facing Business Banking Relationship Managers; in some territories, manage Team Leads who oversee groups of relationship managers.
• Ensure delivery of the Business Banking value proposition and apply the Key Sales Process and Consultative Sales Process Framework to develop the team and support positive client experiences and sustained growth.
• Coach team members, primarily in person, on the segment value proposition and defined client experiences.
• Direct sales efforts using consistent sales processes and tools, including disciplined prospecting, developing internal and external centers of influence, and following up on leads.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of products and services and provide related in-person and remote training and development for the assigned team.
• Support sound credit initiation and promote high-quality risk management and a profitable portfolio.
• Participate in joint client calls in the field or by phone with relationship managers to strengthen selling skills and identify opportunities to support clients’ financial needs and growth objectives.
• Track team performance objectives, manage and evaluate staff performance against established objectives, differentiate performance, and work to ensure bankers achieve their goals.
• Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, employee skill development, career progression, goal setting, performance management, engagement, and pay-for-performance processes.
• Comply with KeyBank policies and procedures, conduct business ethically, avoid conflicts of interest, act professionally, and act in the best interests of clients and Key.
• Perform other duties as assigned; duties and activities may change or be added.

Benefits

• Eligible for incentive compensation, which may include production, commission, and/or discretionary incentives.
• Eligible for benefits; the job posting refers applicants to a separate benefits list.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager