Commercial Banking Associate

BMO•Chicago, IL

1d•$69,000 - $127,800•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly analytical and collaborative Associate to join our U.S. Commercial banking team in a hybrid role that combines portfolio monitoring, regulatory support, and targeted credit underwriting. This position plays a key role in maintaining portfolio health, contributing to strategic initiatives that drive business performance, and supporting regulatory compliance. The Associate will partner closely with internal stakeholders to deliver insights, enhance processes, and support disciplined portfolio management.

Requirements

Commercial lending underwriting experience is required
Typically, 4-6 years of experience in commercial credit underwriting, portfolio management, or financial analysis and post-secondary degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field.
Strong understanding of credit risk principles, financial modeling, and regulatory frameworks.
Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, financial analysis tools, and reporting platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
Excellent analytical, verbal and written communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Technical proficiency gained through education and/or business experience.
Collaboration & team skills - In-depth.
Problem solving skills - In-depth.
Influence skills - In-depth.
Data driven decision making - In-depth.
Intermediate level of proficiency: Problem Solving
Intermediate level of proficiency: Collaboration
Intermediate level of proficiency: Detail-Oriented
Intermediate level of proficiency: Analytical Thinking
Intermediate level of proficiency: Loan Structuring
Intermediate level of proficiency: Regulatory Compliance
Intermediate level of proficiency: Portfolio Management
Intermediate level of proficiency: Credit Risk Assessment
Intermediate level of proficiency: Banking Operations
Intermediate level of proficiency: Microsoft Office
Advanced level of proficiency: Data analysis tools
Advanced level of proficiency: Financial analysis

Nice To Haves

Comfortable in a fast-paced and ambiguous environment, and is a quick learner
Ability to work independently with limited supervision
Strong relationship-building and cross-functional collaboration skills
Excellent critical thinking/analytical/problem solving and organizational skills; ability to analyze issues/requests and determine next steps
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Thorough understanding of data and how it's used to inform business decisions; data-driven decision-making
Experience working with credit data, and associated business acumen
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Responsibilities

Analyze financial statements, cash flow, collateral, and industry trends to assess creditworthiness and loan repayment capacity of commercial clients
Identifies trends in client activities which may be predictive of deteriorating credit quality.
Prepare detailed credit approval packages, including risk assessments, covenant structures, and loan recommendations according to sound credit-granting principles.
Collaborate with Relationship Managers and Credit Officers to structure credit solutions aligned with client needs and risk appetite.
Monitor existing credit relationships for performance, covenant compliance, and early warning indicators.
Minimizes BMO’s risk exposure by adhering to internal credit policies and procedures with respect to lending decisions.
Builds effective relationships with internal/external stakeholders.
Focus is primarily on business/group within BMO; may have broader, enterprise-wide focus.
Exercises judgment to identify, diagnose, and solve problems within given rules.
Works independently on a range of complex tasks, which may include unique situations.
Support portfolio management efforts by tracking key performance indicators, identifying emerging risks, and analyzing portfolio trends.
Assist in the development of strategic insights and reporting that inform business planning and risk mitigation strategies.
Contribute to the design and enhancement of portfolio monitoring tools, reporting, and dashboards to support proactive risk management.
Assist in preparing documentation and data for regulatory reviews, audits, and internal risk assessments.
Ensure compliance with internal credit policies and external regulatory requirements.
Partner with Risk, Compliance, and Legal teams to support regulatory initiatives and maintain data integrity.
Identify opportunities to streamline underwriting, reporting, and monitoring processes through technology enhancements, automation and best practices.
Collaborate across teams to enhance data quality, reporting accuracy, and operational efficiency.
Participate in cross-functional projects that support business growth and risk management objectives.
Broader work or accountabilities may be assigned as needed.