Director of ESOP Lending 41

Climate First Bank is seeking a Director of ESOP Lending in South Carolina. This senior role involves managing ESOP lending relationships and promoting sustainable banking practices. The bank, a Certified B Corporation, emphasizes ethical finance and community support. They offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. Candidates should be passionate about sustainability and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
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 Building401(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 Off2-4 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 MindCompany-Paid Life Insurance Short- & Long-Term Disability InsuranceVoluntary Life, Accident & Critical Illness CoverageEmployee 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 LendingBusiness Development and OriginationOriginate 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 ManagementBe 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 CoordinationLead deal structuring with clients, ESOP advisors, and internal credit teams. Act as liaison between clients and underwriting, credit, legal, and loan operations. Portfolio OversightMaintain accountability for relationship health, satisfaction, and credit compliance. Partner on reviews, amendments, and ongoing monitoring. Identify risks or growth opportunities and escalate as.