Freedom Bank is a community-focused bank located in Columbia Falls, Montana. Our foundation is built on trust, commitment to the community, and personal attention to our customers. We support numerous nonprofit and community development efforts in Flathead Valley. Careers at Freedom Bank offer a collaborative environment where your contributions matter and you gain diverse experience in a dynamic workplace.
Current Openings
Commercial Loan Officer
Freedom Bank is seeking an experienced and motivated Commercial Loan Officer to join our team in beautiful Northwest Montana. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven lender to bring their experience to a thriving community bank while enjoying an exceptional quality of life.
About the Role
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in commercial lending, a demonstrated ability to develop and manage client relationships, and a commitment to sound credit practices. This individual will play a key role in growing and maintaining a diverse loan portfolio while contributing to the bank’s continued success.
We are particularly interested in candidates who bring fresh perspective and innovative thinking to community banking.
Core Responsibilities
- Portfolio Management: Monitor the ongoing financial health of an existing loan portfolio, ensuring timely renewals and adherence to loan covenants.
- Business Development & Retention: Proactively solicit new commercial loan and deposit business with a relationship approach to banking, focusing on long-term partnerships rather than one-off transactions.
- Underwriting & Loan Structuring: Evaluate complex financial statements and tax returns to assess creditworthiness. Structure loans (CRE, C&I, SBA) with appropriate terms, pricing, and collateral to mitigate risk.
- Credit Committee Presentations: Prepare and present comprehensive credit memos to the Bank’s Credit Committee for approval.
- Community Representation: Function as a visible brand ambassador by participating in local civic organizations, boards, and community events.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of commercial lending experience
- Proven record of business development and portfolio management
- Strong credit analysis and underwriting skills
- Self-motivated, innovative, and driven with a solid work ethic
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience with banking technology, systems, or process improvement is a plus
- Proficiency in financial analysis software, CRM tools, and Microsoft Office (specifically Excel for cash flow modeling).
- Willingness to relocate and become part of the local community
Education
- A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred, but not required.
- Completion of a formalized bank credit training program is highly preferred.
- Proven knowledge of federal and state banking regulations.
About Freedom Bank
Freedom Bank is a well-managed, independent community bank with approximately $145 million in assets and a strong reputation for service, stability, and local decision-making. While we specialize in small business lending, we offer a full range of loan products and pride ourselves on flexibility and responsiveness.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a growing community bank
- Collaborative, relationship-driven culture
- Independence and local credit authority
- Located in Northwest Montana, offering world-class outdoor recreation including fishing, hiking, skiing, and more
What We Offer
- Competitive salary with performance-based bonus
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities
- A supportive and collaborative work environment dedicated to the success of our team and community
