Poultry Lending Officer

Southern Bancorp is a different kind of bank. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Southern Bancorp combines traditional banking and lending services with financial development tools and public policy advocacy to help families and communities grow stronger. Our mission is to be wealth builders for everyone in the communities we serve, with a focus on low-wealth and un(der) banked populations, and an emphasis on Black and Brown individuals.

The Lending Officer is responsible for developing and expanding agriculture and small business loans, both directly and indirectly. This role evaluates loan feasibility, streamlines the loan processing workflow, and oversees the loan closing process. The Lending Officer ensures compliance with company policies and guaranteed loan programs, including SBA and FSA underwriting guidelines (when applicable). Staying informed on agricultural and small business lending trends is also a key aspect of this position.

This position services SW Arkansas, SE Oklahoma, E Texas and N Louisiana.

• Develop and maintain a portfolio of agricultural loan accounts.
• Analyze loan applications to assess feasibility and risk.
• Audit loan files to ensure compliance with internal and external guidelines.
• Service existing loans and counsel customers to reduce delinquencies and increase loan volume.
• Coordinate the loan closing process and assist with loan servicing.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• At least three years of experience in agriculture lending or sales.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills to prioritize responsibilities and meet deadlines effectively.
• Strong client service and interpersonal skills for working with internal and external clients.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the organization.
• Effective customer service and collections skills, requiring assertiveness and discretion.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain appropriate vehicle insurance.
• Ability to travel within the market area for meetings and appointments.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, agricultural business, finance, or a related field.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• 401(k)/Roth plan with immediate eligibility and employer match up to 6%
• Employee stock ownership plan
• Discounted rate on primary home mortgage
• Credit and housing counseling as well as free financial education tools available to customers and employees

• No deductible medical insurance plan
• Dental and vision insurance
• Employer paid life and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts

• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Bonus plan
• Opportunity for merit raises
• Employee reward and recognition programs
• Community service opportunities

Southern Bancorp is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We strongly encourage applications from people with diverse identities and backgrounds.