We do the right things, right now.  We do them in a way that is relevant to our clients.  Become a part of our history as it continues to be written! 

If you are interested and qualified for this role, we invite you to apply.

The Preferred Banker is responsible for developing, defining, and executing the First Financial Bank strategy while working with key partners across the Bank as the primary relationship lead, especially within the Wealth and Investment Division (i.e. Yellow Cardinal). Preferred Bankers drive the success of the stated goals and objectives of the Consumer Bank strategy by proactively engaging and pursuing activities that provide holistic financial solutions for clients within the affluent segment that lead to long-term relationships. Preferred Bankers oversee the attracting, retaining, and growing of client relationships through personalized client plans and fostering a trusted advisor relationship through First Financial Bank’s products, with a wide array of banking and investment services.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Actively manages client relationships acting as the first point of contact for assigned client relationships, being the client’s personal advocate across the organization, adding value and service through the ability to identify client needs by developing personalized plans for clients, analyzing customer information, defining goals, and building a strategy and plan in order to make recommendations.
• Drive and build trust through timely and relevant communication, documenting progress, executing efficiently, and delivering on the established plan with the client.
• Develop strong business relationships with key partners (i.e. Yellow Cardinal) focusing on deepening client relationships, finding new opportunities, and sharing client relationships, making the needed introductions and referrals to appropriate business partners.
• Leverage internal partners, external contacts, and centers of influence as sources for new client opportunities for First Financial Bank within their assigned District(s) and Region.
• Integrate well into the community, developing outside sales opportunities by being visible through active participation in community groups. Discover and support site-specific events open to the community.
• Maintain proficiency in product knowledge and comprehensive solutions that First Financial Bank offers that involve deposit, credit, and investment components.
• Proactively sets calling strategies within the Region to follow up on leads to establish opportunities that drive new connections and opportunities that lead to new clients, anchored with a core checking account or operating account.
• Participates in bank marketing and sales promotions, especially within the District and assigned Region; contributing to initiatives and programs designed to promote organization’s strategic priorities.
• Maintain and complies with all bank, loan, and regulatory guidelines and policies.
• Be the point of contact for local bankers, specialists, and partners, providing coaching, feedback, and knowledge on how a Preferred Banking relationship can benefit clients and business owners.
• Actively seek opportunities to develop and maintain their book of client relationship to be the primary connection and advocate for clients and business owners by listening, educating, advising, and guiding them towards their financial goals.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job

• 3-5 years experience in banking and/or in the financial services industry working with clients.
• 3-5 years sales and service experience with previous success in achieving sales and service goals related to working with customers within First Financial.
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated strong product knowledge related to banking products, services, and credit solutions for consumer clients.
• Familiarity with financial planning, investment products, and wealth solutions.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, written communication, organizational, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks/projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• The ability to work well independently with limited direct supervision and in a team environment.

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

• Desire to pursue professional financial designation (FPQP®, CFP®, CWS, ChFC, etc.)

Level of Complexity and Scope

• Regularly follows established guidelines to handle straight-forward, low complexity clients and issues.
• Escalates problems to upper management and/or seeks guidance from other Preferred Bankers.

Degree of Independence and Decision-Making

• Works under direct supervision and follows established guidelines with little to no deviation from standard procedures.

Required Supervisory Responsibilities

• No direct supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

• Occasionally lifts and carries up to 20 lbs.
• Frequently lifts and carries up to 10 lbs.
• Occasionally walks.
• Frequently sits, stand and drives, and navigates a typical office environment.

This role will service an entire Windy City district which can cover as far north as Lincoln Park in Chicago, as far southwest as Chicago Ridge and as far south as Olympia Fields. Travel will be required within the district footprint. Main office location will be based upon selected candidate location.

Compliance Statement

The associate is responsible for meeting all compliance requirements imposed on First Financial Bank by State and Federal law and regulation, as well as all related First Financial Bank policies and procedures. This includes all Bank Secrecy Act, Anti-Money Laundering, OFAC and Suspicious Activity reporting requirements, as well as all other lending and deposit compliance requirements.

Development and Training

Pay Range

$58,000- $78,000/annually

Benefits

We have relevant, thoughtful benefits and programs that support every aspect of our associates' holistic wellbeing. Please review our Benefits Guide. 

Incentive Eligibility

All roles are incentive eligible with the exception of Co-Op, Intern, or Student positions.

It is our policy to not discriminate against any individual in violation of federal, state, and local laws as it relates to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran/military service, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are an E-Verify Employer.