Community Relations Officer

Position Summary

The Community Relations Officer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and strengthening the Bank's relationships with community organizations, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, chambers of commerce, and customers. 

This position promotes the Bank's mission, enhances its public image, supports Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) initiatives, and identifies opportunities for business development and community partnerships. The Community Relations Officer serves as a key ambassador for the Bank throughout its markets.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Community Engagement

• Develop and maintain relationships with community leaders, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government agencies, and local business organizations.
• Represent the Bank at community meetings, networking events, conferences, and civic activities.
• Coordinate the Bank's participation in community events, sponsorships, and volunteer activities.
• Identify partnership opportunities that align with the Bank's strategic objectives.

Business Development

• Generate business opportunities through community relationships and referrals.
• Collaborate with Commercial Banking, Retail Banking, Treasury Management, Mortgage, and Wealth Management to identify cross-selling opportunities.
• Support market expansion initiatives and community outreach efforts.
• Maintain relationships with key customers and community influencers.

Community Reinvestment Act (CRA)

• Work closely with the CRA Officer to support community development initiatives.
• Assist in identifying qualified CRA investments, services, and outreach activities.
• Maintain records of community development activities and volunteer participation.
• Support CRA examinations by providing requested documentation and reports.

Public Relations & Brand Awareness

• Promote a positive image of the Bank throughout the communities it serves.
• Coordinate public appearances and speaking opportunities for executive management.
• Assist Marketing with community communications, press releases, and promotional activitis.
• Ensure consistent messaging regarding the Bank's products, services, and community involvement.

Financial Education

• Coordinate financial literacy seminars for schools, businesses, and community organizations.
• Develop educational outreach programs that promote financial wellness.
• Partner with local organizations to increase access to financial education.

Internal Collaboration

• Partner with Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, Marketing, Compliance, CRA, and Human Resources on community initiatives.
• Support employee volunteer programs and community service activities.
• Provide periodic reports on community engagement activities and business development opportunities.

Compliance Responsibilities

• Ensure all activities comply with applicable banking regulations, including CRA, Fair Lending, BSA/AML, and Bank policies.
• Maintain confidentiality of customer and Bank information.
• Complete all required regulatory and compliance training.

Experience

• Five or more years of experience in banking, business development, community relations, marketing, or public affairs.
• Community banking experience preferred.
• Knowledge of CRA requirements is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong relationship-building and networking skills,
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Strong public speaking abilities.
• Ability to build partnerships with community organizations and business leaders.
• Understanding of banking products and financial services.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.