Managing Director, Head Of Banking & Lending

Cresset Capital • Chicago, IL

1d

About The Position

The Managing Director, Head of Banking & Lending will lead the strategy, development, and execution of Cresset’s banking and lending platform. This role is responsible for building and managing a best-in-class network of banking and lending partners to serve the complex personal needs of ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients. This individual will act as both a strategic architect and hands-on expert, partnering closely with wealth advisors to enhance client outcomes through sophisticated credit solutions. The role requires deep expertise in credit, strong industry relationships, and the ability to translate lending strategies into actionable opportunities for advisors and clients.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field required.
• 10+ years of experience in private banking or middle market/commercial banking.
• Demonstrated expertise in structuring and executing lending transactions for UHNW/HNW clients, particularly across residential mortgages and securities-based lending.
• Proven track record of building and managing relationships with banking and lending institutions.
• Knowledge of a broad range of credit products, including residential and commercial real estate lending, securities-based lending, concentrated collateral and structured liquidity solutions, and unsecured and specialty lending (e.g., aircraft, art, niche assets).
• Strong understanding of the national banking landscape, including lender-specific credit appetites and underwriting approaches.
• Knowledge of capital markets and macroeconomic factors impacting lending (e.g., interest rates, liquidity conditions).
• Advanced analytical and financial modeling skills, with the ability to evaluate credit opportunities and risks.
• Ability to clearly communicate complex credit concepts to advisors, clients, and prospects.
• Client-Centric Mindset: Commitment to delivering a high-touch, white-glove client experience.
• Influence & Collaboration: Ability to build trust and influence advisors, clients, and external partners without direct authority.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; able to simplify complex concepts.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to balance long-term platform development with near-term execution.
• Execution-Oriented: Hands-on approach with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with evolving priorities.
• Team Leadership: Ability to mentor and develop junior team members and contribute to a collaborative culture.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree (MBA or similar) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute the firm’s banking and lending strategy, including defining the optimal partner ecosystem.
• Build and maintain relationships with a curated network of national, regional, and specialty banks and lenders.
• Evaluate and select partners based on their ability to deliver differentiated solutions for UHNW clients.
• Serve as the internal leader for banking and lending capabilities across the firm.
• Educate and train advisors on how to effectively position and deliver lending solutions as part of holistic Family Office Services.
• Develop frameworks, playbooks, and best practices to help advisors identify and execute lending opportunities.
• Partner with advisors to integrate lending into client acquisition, retention, and overall relationship strategy.
• Act as a senior subject matter expert, advising on various credit strategies for clients and prospects.
• Partner directly with advisors and clients to structure and position lending opportunities for successful execution.
• Navigate complex balance sheets, nuanced client needs, and varying lender requirements to optimize outcomes.
• Facilitate communication and coordination between clients, advisors, and lending partners throughout the deal lifecycle.
• Provide informed perspectives on credit markets, interest rate environment, and lending trends.
• Assess credit opportunities and associated risks, ensuring alignment with client objectives and prudent risk management.
• Guide advisors and clients in understanding trade-offs across different lending structures and providers, particularly with residential mortgages and securities-based lending.
• Gather feedback from advisors and clients to continuously refine the banking and lending platform.
• Identify gaps in product offerings or partner capabilities and drive enhancements.
• Monitor competitive landscape and emerging trends to ensure Cresset maintains a differentiated offering.

Benefits

• competitive compensation package for the Internship Program
• opportunity to work in the wealth management environment allowing you to understand the industry and determine if it is the right step for you in your future endeavors
• learning and development activities to give you broader exposure to the company
• networking opportunities

What This Job Offers

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