Director of ESOP Lending

We are changing FINANCE to finance CHANGE! At  Climate First Bank , we’re redefining what banking can be. As a Florida Benefit Corporation and FDIC-insured commercial bank, we offer a full suite of personal and business services—including solar, residential, commercial, ESOP Banking, Structured Finance and SBA loans—all designed to power a better future. We’re proud to be a Certified B Corporation, a member of 1% for the Planet, and part of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), reflecting our deep commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ethical banking. With branches in  St. Petersburg, Winter Park, Mount Dora , and a growing  digital presence , we’re proving that banking can be a force for good. We don’t just support environmental and social causes—we’re built on them. Under our Holding Company,  Climate First Bancorp , we are also powered by OneEthos.  OneEthos  operates at the intersection of fintech and traditional banking to expand access to inclusive, values-driven financial services. Regulated by the Federal Reserve Bank, it equips Community Banks, Credit Unions, CDFIs, and Green Banks with ethical lending tools—especially in climate finance and solar lending. Join the Movement We’re seeking  driven, mission-aligned  individuals ready to make an impact. If you’re passionate about sustainability, thrive in a fast-paced, results driven environment, and want to be part of something bigger, you will feel right at home. Our team is one of  goal-setters, go-getters, problem solvers, thought leaders, and changemakers . We celebrate wins, tackle challenges head-on, and push boundaries. Fueled by purpose, we thrive where perseverance and passion turn ambitious goals into reality. Thrive at Climate First Bank At Climate First Bank, we’re investing in your future. We offer a comprehensive, people-first benefits package that supports your health, finances, and work-life balance. Compensation   —  In addition to the base salary, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus, incentives and equity. Actual compensation is based on industry salary ranges, internal salary structures, experience, skills and other job-related factors. Health Coverage  —  100% employer-paid for employees; employer contribution for dependents by Us Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance  Health Savings Account (HSA)  Free Telemedicine access via Teladoc   Financial Wellness & Wealth Building 401(k) with 6% Employer Match —  No Vesting Period. Employee Stock Options  Exclusive Employee Banking Perks  0% Financing for Employee Solar Loans  Employee Only Mortgage Product  with exclusive interest rates and terms. 0% Financing for Eligible Electric Vehicles (EVs)  Referral Incentives  Generous Paid Time Off 2–4 Weeks of Vacation  based on officer level plus additional tenure-based time. 64 Hours of Paid Sick Time  for all full-time employees. Protection & Peace of Mind Company-Paid Life Insurance  Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance Voluntary Life, Accident & Critical Illness Coverage   Employee Assistance Program (EAP)  with free counseling, legal, and financial services. Now Hiring: Director of ESOP Lending The  Director of Employee Ownership Finance  is a senior commercial banking role responsible for originating and managing ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) and employee ownership lending relationships. This role mirrors traditional commercial banking with specialized ESOP expertise. You’ll serve as the primary client-facing lead for ESOP borrower What You’ll Contribute as the Director of ESOP Lending Business Development and Origination Originate ESOP and employee ownership lending and deposit opportunities, including buyouts, refinancings, recapitalizations, and growth financings. Build referral relationships with ESOP advisors, attorneys, trustees, valuation firms, investment bankers, and other industry partners. Develop a national ESOP pipeline through networking, thought leadership, and industry involvement.  Represent the bank at ESOP conferences, events, and educational forums. Relationship Management Be the primary relationship manager for ESOP clients and trusted advisor to owners and employee-owned companies. Lead discussions related to transaction structure, capital needs, timing, and bank requirements. Coordinate onboarding, documentation, and closing with internal partners.  Maintain long-term client relationships post close with high service standards. Deal Structuring & Credit Coordination Lead deal structuring with clients, ESOP advisors, and internal credit teams.  Act as liaison between clients and underwriting, credit, legal, and loan operations. Portfolio Oversight Maintain accountability for relationship health, satisfaction, and credit compliance. Partner on reviews, amendments, and ongoing monitoring.  Identify risks or growth opportunities and escalate as needed. Internal Leadership & Program Development Support development of the bank’s ESOP lending strategy and go-to-market approach. Educate internal teams on ESOP structures, market dynamics, and client needs.  Contribute to best practices and scalable growth processes. Champion Our Mission, Protect What Matters Embody a commitment to environmental, social, economic, and racial justice. Pursue education related to sustainability practices. Understand and follow Bank policies, procedures, and regulations. Protect the organization and its customers by identifying and escalating suspicious or fraudulent activity in collaboration with appropriate teams.  Maintain working knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and Bank policies; complete all required compliance and IT training. What You’ll Leverage in this Role: Experience & Education Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, accounting, or a related field. 8+ years of commercial banking or corporate finance e