Business Development Officer

The Business Development Officer (BDO) plays a crucial role in advancing LiftFund's mission by facilitating access to capital for entrepreneurs and small businesses. This position drives economic development and financial inclusion by originating loans, cultivating community partnerships, and providing client support throughout the lending process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Generate small business loan production to meet assigned goals.
• Proactively build and maintain a pipeline of qualified applicants through community outreach and strategic marketing.
• Develop and manage a network of referral sources including banks, CDFIs, chambers of commerce, and economic development entities.
• Deliver high-touch client support throughout the lending cycle: inquiry, application, underwriting, closing, and servicing.
• Conduct in-depth borrower assessments including site visits, collateral evaluation, financial analysis, and credit readiness.
• Provide individualized and group educational sessions on LiftFund products and small business finance.
• Analyze business financials, market trends, and borrower capacity to make sound lending recommendations.
• Present loan proposals to credit committees in alignment with LiftFund's credit policy and impact goals.
• Manage an active loan portfolio by maintaining client engagement and monitoring for early risk indicators.
• Partner with collections and servicing teams to resolve delinquent loans and support loss mitigation efforts.
• Ensure all client and loan records are accurately documented in LiftFund's CRM and loan servicing systems.
• Participate in loan closings and assist clients with document collection and pre-closing requirements.
• Represent LiftFund at community forums, events, and partner engagements to enhance visibility and credibility.
• Design and implement process improvements for loan pipeline management and operational efficiency.
• Identify new lending opportunities through data analysis, market research, and community feedback.
• Support efforts to raise funds and build partnerships to further LiftFund's mission and reach.

• Volume and quality of loan originations.
• Growth and engagement of referral networks.
• Portfolio performance (e.g., delinquency rates, client satisfaction).
• Accuracy and timeliness of CRM entries and loan documentation.
• Contributions to organizational visibility and strategic initiatives.

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, economics, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Three (3) years of experience in small business lending, banking, credit analysis, or economic development.
• Familiarity with SBA 7(a), 504, and other government-guaranteed lending programs highly preferred.
• Demonstrated success in meeting or exceeding lending/sales goals.
• Strong financial and credit analysis skills; able to assess risk and structure deals.
• Excellent communication, relationship management, and presentation skills.
• Proficient in CRM systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders, including underserved entrepreneurs.
• Knowledge of financial literacy principles and lending compliance.
• Familiarity with business planning and cash flow projections.
• Collaborative team player with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Experience working with nonprofit or mission-driven lenders a plus.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities; self-motivated and goal-driven.
• Must have valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish preferred.