VP, Sr. Loan Review Officer / VP, Loan Review Officer

GENERAL SUMMARY The Loan Review Department (LRD) is a second line of defense function, and part of Cathay Bank’s Risk Division, and as such is independent of all credit granting, adjudication, and operations by the first line of defense. LRD's mandate is to independently assess and opine upon the overall credit risk and effectiveness of credit risk management processes of the Bank. LRD also serves as an internal advisor to lending units, loan administration, and credit administration/ risk management to identify, recommend and effect process changes regarding credit risk management activities, regulatory issues related to credit risk, credit policy, and general credit underwriting guidelines; identifies current or potential problems regarding the assessment of credit risk and the administration of Bank credit/loan exposure; analyzes and monitors the quality of various and commercial credits that represent the wide range of non-retail credit products offered by the Bank. Evaluates Credit Policies/Credit Process and assures that proper credit controls are in place to fully satisfy safety and soundness standards established by Bank regulators; monitors adherence to such policies and validates that exceptions are adequately identified, fully justified and properly approved. May lead credit review examinations, prepare final reports, and conduct overall meetings with Bank departments.   ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Scope, lead and manage examinations of various types of credit portfolios and credit processes. Performs risk based independent reviews of all types of CB loan portfolios to identify current or potential problems, as well as positive elements, regarding the assessment of credit risk and the administration of Bank credit/loan exposure. Determines the accuracy of assigned internal credit risk ratings, non-compliance with CB policies and procedures, loan weaknesses so that timely corrective actions can be taken, violations of laws and regulations and inadequate credit/collateral documentation. Identifies, recommends and effects process changes as related to credit risk management activities, regulatory statutes, credit policy and general credit underwriting guidelines. Interprets and evaluates Bank Credit Policy and assures that proper credit controls are in place to appropriately manage credit risk. Monitors adherence to such policies and validates that exceptions are adequately identified, fully justified and properly approved. Acts as internal advisor/partner to CB's line units regarding loan and credit matters and provides guidance in areas that require further development. Maintains awareness of the current regulatory/industry trends impacting the Bank's credit areas. Promotes teamwork within the department to ensure that knowledge and experience is shared among team members. Prepares departmental reports and other portfolio reporting as requested by management.  Complies fully with all Bank Operational and Credit policies and procedures as well as all regulatory requirements (e.g. Bank Secrecy Act, Know Your Client, Community Reinvestment Act, Fair Lending Practices, Code of Conduct, etc.). Completes all required training and special projects as requested.   QUALIFICATIONS Education:   Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or economics. Experience:   Minimum 5-7 years of credit examination experience as a commercial lender, regulator or credit review officer. Experience leading teams of examiners in the successful completion of credit risk review activities and related projects. Experience in specialized lending such as asset-based lending (ABL), energy (including oil & gas), shared national credits (SNC). and syndicated lending is a plus.  Skills/Ability:   A thorough understanding of analyzing various types of commercial and middle market credits is required, along with understanding of high net worth and private client lending and retail loan products is desired. Must be able to work successfully in a client focused, consultative work environment. Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, strong project management skills. Previous experience in leading teams responsible for credit analysis and assessment is desirable. Thorough knowledge and operational skills in the use of personal computers and various software packages, including Excel and Word.   OTHER DETAILS $115K – $135K / yearPay determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location.This position may be eligible for a discretionary bonus.