VP/Director of Retail Banking

Forte Bank • Hartford, WI

2d

About The Position

Forte Bank in Hartford, WI is seeking an experienced, people-first leader to serve as our VP/Director of Retail Banking . This is a senior leadership role for someone who believes strong results come from strong teams and who has a track record of driving execution and delivering results. This role is a key cultural leader at Forte Bank - someone who is patient, empathetic, sales-oriented, and deeply invested in developing people as individuals, not just employees. As VP/Director of Retail Banking, you will lead branch operations and growth across four or more community bank locations, driving deposits, consumer lending, home equity, and small-business relationships.

Requirements

• 7-10+ years of retail banking experience in a leadership role
• 5+ years leading multiple branches or an area team (4+ branches)
• Strong knowledge of branch operations, compliance, and audit controls
• Proven experience executing workforce planning, training & development, and career pathing
• Experience with core banking systems, data, and analytics , conversion experience preferred
• Bachelor's degree

Nice To Haves

• MBA or certifications a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop branch and retail leaders into a high performing, engaged team
• Drive sales performance while elevating the customer experience-both in-branch and digitally
• Partner with the COO to co-lead Forte Bank's digital transformation, including digital account opening, e-sign, remote servicing, and workflow automation
• Redefine retail job descriptions, build career paths, and implement a formal retail banking training and sales program
• Develop KPIs, analyze customer and performance data, and take action when results fall short
• Partner with the Marketing Manager to convert retail goals into focused, data-driven growth strategies using customer and branch performance data. Strategically use business and marketing insights to grow deposits, loans, and customer relationships.
• Oversee all aspects of branch operations, audits, cash controls, compliance (KYC/AML), and security
• Serve on ALCO and help guide deposit pricing and funding strategies
• Be highly visible in the community, building relationships and representing Forte Bank at local events

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Health/Dental/Vision/Life
• Very Generous PTO plan
• 401(k) with company match up to 4% (immediate vesting!)
• Profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Program

What This Job Offers

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