Credit Officer

First Western • Quinte West, ON

2h • $121,000 - $194,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Credit Officer role exists to ensure that First Western’s credit practices align with its overall strategic objectives, while maintaining regulatory compliance and portfolio health. The position contributes to First Western by balancing risk and growth opportunity. It supports client relationship development and business expansion without compromising compliance or portfolio integrity. Additionally, it strengthens organizational capability through training and collaboration, ensuring consistent credit standards and informed credit structuring and decision-making across the bank.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 7–10 years of experience in commercial banking or financial services, with strong focus on credit risk mgt.
• Proven experience in underwriting complex commercial, real estate, and high-net-worth loans.
• Experience underwriting complex commercial, real estate, and high-net-worth loans.
• Strong knowledge of credit analysis, portfolio management, and risk assessment.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and credit governance frameworks.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive sound credit decisions.

Responsibilities

• Support First Western’s overall strategic direction and growth plans with informed credit structuring and consultation with bankers, balancing growth with risk.
• Approve and assist the offices with management of larger, more complex credits within delegated authority.
• Define credit appetite for strategic partners, provide structuring guidance, and promote a “Yes IF” mindset to enable growth without compromising compliance.
• Participate in client meetings, act as a strategic advisor in negotiations, and help strengthen long-term relationships.
• Assist the Senior Credit Officer to identify underwriting and analysis skill gaps and help implement training programs like Shockproof to enhance credit expertise. Helps serve as a mentor to help career pathing for more junior credit approvers.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $121,000 – $194,000/YR, plus strong bonus potential.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid parking and transportation benefits.
• Health savings accounts (HSA)
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous paid time off and bank holidays.
• Access to training and professional development programs.
• Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.
• A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

What This Job Offers

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