We are pleased to share with you the exciting Commercial Lending Team Leader opportunity with Ascend Bank (http://www.ascend.bank). Founded in 1875, our client is a highly regarded mutual bank serving individuals, families, and businesses across Connecticut. Formerly Guilford Savings Bank, our client has grown into a $1.5 billion asset institution with twelve banking locations, a strong digital platform, and an expanding footprint throughout Connecticut and neighboring states. In 2025, Ascend completed the successful acquisition of Eastern Connecticut Savings Bank, further expanding its market presence.

This is a compelling opportunity to help build and expand a commercial lending platform within a stable, growth oriented community bank of scale. The Commercial Lending Team Leader will be given both the support and autonomy to be creative in leading a talented team of Commercial Lenders. The Team Leader and their team will be charged with developing profitable client relationships and contributing to the overall success of the Bank. 

Position Overview:

• Lead, supervise, and administer all aspects of assigned team’s commercial lending activity in coordination with the Commercial Loan Origination Manager (“CLOM”) and Ascend’s strategic plan, policies, and budgets. 
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients and provide quality customer service.
• When needed, help prepare loan requests for underwriting in a timely manner and in alignment with the Bank’s loan policy and obtain necessary approvals, close the loan, and administer the customer relationship.

The successful candidate will bring:

• A minimum of eight to ten years of relevant commercial (C&I) and/or commercial real estate lending experience in a bank setting (or equivalent). 
• Strong leadership, management, interpersonal, analytical, decision-making, communication, organizational, and presentation skills.