Description
RELATIONSHIP MANAGER SR ESOP
WHAT IS THE OPPORTUNITY?
Experienced, and growth-oriented National ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Lender and Subject Matter Expert who leads the development of the banks ESOP lending platform nationwide. Strong track record of independently originating, structuring, and closing ESOP transactions with middle-market companies and will play a key role in building a high-quality loan portfolio, targeting $1.5 billion over the next five years. This individual will focus on companies with EBITDA greater than $10 million, directly sourcing opportunities while also partnering with relationship managers across our commercial and corporate banking teams. The role also includes serving as the bank's internal expert on ESOP finance, helping drive our positioning and strategy in this highly specialized segment.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
- Deal Originatiaon & Execution
- Source and lead the origination of ESOP transactions with companies generating $10 million+ in EBITDA, with typical loan sizes ranging from $10 million to $100 million plus.
- Structure, underwrite, and negotiate deal terms in close coordination with credit partners and legal counsel.
- Oversee all aspects of the deal process from origination through closing, including borrower due diligence and internal approval workflows.
- Portfolio Growth & Market Development
- Drive the buildout of a national ESOP loan portfolio with a $1.5 billion target over five years.
- Identify and prioritize industry sectors, regions, and business characteristics aligned with portfolio goals.
- Expand the bank's market presence by developing referral relationships with ESOP advisors, trustees, investment bankers, legal counsel, and valuation experts.
- Internal Collaboration & Enablement
- Work closely with commercial and corporate bankers to identify ESOP opportunities within the existing client base.
- Support relationship teams through joint calling, transaction structuring guidance, and ESOP education.
- Serve as a senior internal advisor on ESOP-related matters including tax structuring, fiduciary dynamics, and long-term ownership planning.
- Thought Leadership & Brand Building
- Represent the bank exaternally as a subject matter expert on ESOP finance, speaking at conferences, publishing insights, and cultivating the bank's reputation as a trusted ESOP lender.
- Contribute to the bank's strategic ESOP roadmap, helping to define go-to-market strategies and regional expansion plans (e.g., into key markets like Texas).
- Collaborate with marketing, product, and credit policy teams to develop tools, materials, and offerings aligned with ESOP market needs.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO SUCCEED
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's Degree or equivalent
- Minimum 7-10 years of experience in commercial or corporate lending with a strong focus on ESOP transactions.
- Proven ability to independently originate and close ESOP loans in the middle market, including senior and subordinated debt structures.
- Strong credit and financial modeling skills; experience managing complex deal processes and working directly with credit approvers.
- Deep knowledge of ESOP regulations, tax implications, legal structures, and capital strategy considerations.
- Demonstrated ability to build and manage referral networks across the ESOP advisory ecosystem.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; collaborative and proactive approach to cross-functional work.
- Willingness to travel as needed to support client development and relationship management.
- Preferred Qualifications
- Established relationships with ESOP advisors, trustees, and valuation firms.
- Experience in structuring syndicated facilities or partnering with mezzanine/sub-debt providers.
- Bachelor of Science or greater and other relevant professional designations.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
Compensation
Benefits and Perks
At City National, we strive to be the best at whatever we do, including the benefits and perks we offer our colleagues including:
- Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including Medical, Dental and Vision plans, available the first of the month following start date
- Generous 401(k) company matching contribution
- Career Development through Tuition Reimbursement and other internal upskilling and training resources
- Valued Time Away benefits including vacation, sick and volunteer time
- Specialized health and family planning benefits including fertility benefits, and cancer, diabetes and musculoskeletal support programs
- Career Mobility support from a dedicated recruitment team
- Colleague Resource Groups to support networking and community engagement
ABOUT US
Since day one we've always gone further than the competition to help our clients, colleagues and communities flourish. City National Bank was founded in 1954 by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs and that legacy of integrity, community and unparalleled client relationships continues today. City National is a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada, one of North America's leading diversified financial services companies. To learn more about City National and our dynamic company culture, visit us at About Us.
INCLUSION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
City National Bank fosters an inclusive environment where all forms of diversity are valued and leveraged to make us a better company and employer. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other basis protected by law.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*Represents basic qualifications for the position. To be considered for this position, you must at least meet the required qualifications. careers.cnb.com accepts applications on an ongoing basis, until filled.
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