Senior Underwriter

Description Title: Senior Underwriter Employee Status: Full Time, Exempt Salary: Grade 5 Starting range of $85,000 – $108,000 Reports to: Managing Director of Lending Department: Capital Solutions Location: Chicago, IL Hybrid: In office: T/W | WFH: M/Th/F Department Function: Capital is a critical resource that’s often beyond the reach of nonprofits serving communities with limited resources. IFF works hard to change that. For more than 30 years, IFF has specialized in flexible lending products that help nonprofits achieve their growth goals and best serve their communities. IFF’s clients include human services agencies, supportive housing providers, schools, health clinics, arts organizations, community centers and a full spectrum of other nonprofit organizations. Racial inequality in property values still exists today. IFF takes a different approach to underwriting that isn’t limited by appraisals, but instead is informed by a deep understanding of nonprofit operations and the importance of nonprofit facilities to communities. IFF provides lending to our clients uniquely designed to serve nonprofits with no appraisals on commercial projects, as low as five percent up front, and long-term loans with no prepayment penalties. Loans can be used for acquisition, facility improvement, equipment and vehicles, and affordable housing. Capital Solutions is part of IFF’s Core Business Solutions which is a cross-cutting team that sits at the nexus of nonprofits, communities, and IFF technical knowledge. The group provides thought leadership and expertise to drive corporate strategy across markets. The primary business units in Core Business Solutions are Capital Solutions, Real Estate Solutions, Community Development Solutions, Home First, Legal and Compliance. The Organization IFF is a mission-driven lender, real estate consultant, and developer that helps communities thrive. Key to our success has been a deep sense of purpose, a broad perspective, and a relentless focus on achieving positive results. Across the Midwest we help clients from every sector, including human service agencies, health centers, schools, affordable housing developers, and healthy food grocery operators. Staff contribute extensive business experience and an unrivaled connection to the mission of IFF to the clients we serve. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Partnering to create thriving communities is at the heart of everything we do. We leverage knowledge, capital, and resources to advance equitable and transformational outcomes in under-resourced communities, guided by our commitment to be an inclusive, anti-racist and anti-oppressive institution that honors communities as asset-rich and as experts in their own stories. Basic Job Function Responsible for loan production, including screening, evaluation, structuring, and approval, and as lead/primary client relationship manager during the approval process. Work closely and collaboratively with lenders and closers to ensure the thorough and efficient processing of loan requests, with the expectation of a high level of independence. IFF is looking for candidates who are committed to the work we do and can demonstrate creativity, diligence, enthusiasm, a growth mindset, thoughtfulness, and passion to make meaningful change in the areas of economic and racial justice. Requirements Core Responsibilities: 1. Primary point of contact for client loan requests. Responsible for underwriting, seeking approval, and facilitating the closing of loans, including those requiring complex structuring. Guide prospective borrowers through the loan application, approval and closing process. Intermediate analytical skills necessary to gather and interpret data and prepare reports. Screen projects for alignment with IFF and department goals. Evaluate loan requests, including the organization's financial condition and projections, site analysis and building plans, operations, potential risks, and other relevant data to support a recommendation of whether to make a loan. Follow up as necessary with client and others to obtain additional information. Coordinate as necessary with the Managing Director of Lending – Chicago, NW IN, WI, IA & MN to underwrite, structure, package, and present loan recommendations for approval to loan committees. Support IFF’s Customer Relationship Management database with data input to ensure that accurate and comprehensive information is readily available. Coordinate with IFF Closing and Escrow Services team, borrower, attorneys, and others to facilitate closing process in timely and efficient manner. Work with the Portfolio Management team to support smooth transition of relationship post loan closing. Demonstrates a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Promotes an environment of empathy and respect, ensures the inclusion of all team members, and will actively engage in EDI events and learning opportunities. 2. Work closely with lenders and closers to ensure ultimate client satisfaction and regional production goals are met. Respond in a timely manner to inquiries from prospective borrowers, provide information regarding IFF lending programs, assess loan readiness, and assist as necessary to prepare loan submissions and related paperwork. Follow up in a timely manner with leads and referrals Closely coordinate with lenders to ensure clear roles and responsibilities for each client and/or project to ensure efficient and high-quality results. Maintain required job knowledge, skills, and core professional competencies. Attend and participate in required educational programs and staff meetings. Maintain clear lines of communication with lenders and clients in regards to loan requests. 3. Demonstrates a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Promotes an environment of empathy and respect, ensures the inclusion of all team members, and will actively engage in EDI events and learning opportunities. 4. Perform other projects as assigned. No job description can be entirely comprehensive, and the jobholder will be expected to carry out such other duties as may be required from time to time and are broadly consistent with the job description and status of the position within the organization. Performance Measures: 1. Achievement of team lending and program goals. 2. Complete, accurate, and thoughtful analysis and communication of lending risks and mitigants for borrower loan requests. 3. Cultivates a culture of openness in information sharing. Encourages open communication, cooperation, and the sharing of knowledge. 4. Models personal accountability that promotes ownership and engagement. 5. Builds and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues, peers and team members. 6. Values and supports differences in others, contributing to an inclusive work environment. Demonstrates the ability and willingness to communicate effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and experiences to create a collaborative, collegial, and caring community. 7. High level of satisfaction with both internal colleagues and external contacts. Position Qualifications Education : Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in business, accounting or finance. Or equivalent experience in a similar position. Previous Experience : Five years’ experience in banking, finance, or real estate finance required. Demonstrated competence in commercial lending terminology and credit and financial statement analysis. Additional Requirements : Some travel within the Midwest, including occasional overnight travel; occasional evening and weekend work; able to inspect active construction project sites. Standard Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution Life Insurance Short and long term disability Work-Life Balance Benefits: Hybrid workplace Summer Fridays Employee Development Benefits: Professional development stipend Mentorship program Miscellaneous: Wellness programs Employee assistance Referral Bonuses IFF does not offer the following: • relocation package • 100% remote • provide sponsorship to applicants who require or will require a work permit. Check off only some boxes in the requirements listed above. Studies have shown that marginalized communities - such as women, LGBTQ+ and people of color - are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every qualification. So, if you're excited about this role, we encourage you to apply. Application Instructions: Please visit the Careers section of our website to apply online. IFF values equity, diversity, and inclusion as part of its mission to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. IFF is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building and maintaining a culturally diverse workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment of any kind. We encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.