Commercial Loan Officer (Restaurant & Franchise Lending)

Northern Bank•Woburn, MA

2d•$160,000 - $200,000

About The Position

The Commercial Loan Officer (Restaurant & Franchise Lending), also referred to as the Franchise & Restaurant Loan Officer, seeks and develops partnerships with full-service and quick-service restaurant (QSR) owners and professionals seeking financing. The role grows the Bank’s QSR loan portfolio while supporting, servicing, and maintaining existing client relationships. The position manages commercial lending activities across the loan life cycle, from identifying and evaluating opportunities through credit committee recommendations, underwriting support, borrower communications, closing, and post-closing portfolio servicing. It reviews existing loans and renewals, monitors portfolio status and risk, maintains client documentation, and oversees construction-loan progress and requisitions. The officer also cultivates relationships with clients and professional referral sources, stays informed about QSR products and industry trends, and ensures lending documentation and decisions comply with Bank policy and applicable state and federal requirements. The role requires a flexible schedule, out-of-state travel, and participation in Bank events during and after regular hours. The targeted annual salary range is $160,000–$200,000, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

5+ years of commercial lending experience preferred, including QSR franchise, commercial real estate, and construction lending.
Strong analytical, technical, and statistical skills.
Sound knowledge of credit risk, accounting principles, financial statements, and tax returns.
Strong understanding of the banking industry and associated regulatory requirements.
Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Advanced writing and oral communication skills.
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office products and lending programs.
Proven track record of relationship and portfolio management, as well as loan origination.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in business, finance, or accounting preferred.
Commercial lending experience, including QSR franchise, commercial real estate, and construction, is preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintain and develop the Bank’s existing portfolio by assessing and meeting client needs and actively seeking new business.
Assist throughout the loan life cycle, from application through post-closing.
Identify and evaluate commercial loan opportunities.
Present and recommend appropriate loans to the Bank’s credit committee.
Compile information for underwriters to evaluate loan opportunities accurately.
Communicate consistently with borrowers and Bank staff throughout the loan process.
Work with the loan closing team and the Bank’s attorney to close loans.
Review annual loan reviews and renewals, identify potential credit weaknesses, and validate or assign appropriate risk ratings.
Monitor the loan portfolio, including delinquent and matured loans, line-of-credit renewals, and status reports.
Maintain accurate client document-management records and manage requests, collection, and storage of client documents.
Engage third-party consultants on construction loans to monitor construction progress.
Review and oversee construction-loan requisition processes.
Monitor lease, franchise, and remodel dates; related extension documentation; completion dates; and upcoming financing needs.
Cultivate long-term client and professional-center-of-influence relationships and promote positive Bank recognition by attending and coordinating networking, function, and industry events.
Maintain a comprehensive understanding of current commercial products offered in the QSR industry and keep informed about relevant industry trends and practices.
Resolve non-routine and complex problems using specialized knowledge and independent action.
Understand the impact of QSR lending on the Bank’s goals.
Verify the quality, completeness, and accuracy of supporting loan documentation and analysis, and ensure loans comply with Bank lending policy and applicable state and federal regulatory requirements and procedures.
Maintain accurate department records and perform other duties assigned by a supervisor.
Assist with special projects as assigned.
Travel out of state and participate in Bank events during and after hours on a flexible schedule.