Position Summary
The Associate Director – Agriculture is responsible for developing and growing Essex’s agricultural equipment finance portfolio in collaboration with the Directors-Agriculture. This role combines relationship building and business development with basic credit assessment and account management.
The Associate Director will work in collaboration with the Directors with respect to agricultural clients, agricultural equipment dealers, and industry partners to create new financing opportunities and support existing relationships. Responsibilities include preparing proposals and credit applications, reviewing financials and collateral, and managing renewals and account activity.
Responsibilities:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with agricultural clients, equipment dealers, and industry partners.
• Develop new business opportunities through prospecting, referrals, and networking.
• Manage existing accounts, including renewals, expired credits, arrears follow-up, and day-to-day client needs.
• Prepare credit applications with appropriate analysis of financial statements, collateral, and risk.
• Structure financing solutions that meet client needs and align with company policies.
• Address client concerns and ensure timely follow-up and resolution.
• Collaborate with internal credit and operations teams to ensure accurate documentation and risk management.
• Share market insights and competitor activity to help inform Essex’s agriculture strategy.
• Identify opportunities to connect clients with other Essex products such as ABLoCs and mortgages.
• Represent Essex in the agricultural community by participating in industry and business events.
The Successful Candidate Will:
• Build positive and professional client relationships while delivering excellent service.
• Be comfortable reviewing financial information and structuring credit solutions.
• Balance business development with sound credit practices.
• Communicate clearly with clients, colleagues, and partners.
• Manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Work independently while being a supportive team member.
• Bring integrity, professionalism, and a willingness to learn and grow.
Required Education and Experience:
• Post-secondary education in business, agriculture, finance, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 4+ years of experience in agricultural, equipment, small business, or commercial lending, including credit analysis and structuring.
• Familiarity with financial statements and lending practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Experience working with agricultural producers, equipment dealers, or related industries is considered an asset.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and annual incentive bonus.
- RRSP matching benefits.
- Education benefits with up to 100% reimbursement for courses.
- Preferred rates on financial services and home/auto insurance.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, including a health spending account.
- Generous vacation entitlements and flex days.
- Employee rewards and team events to foster work relationships.
- Regular community fundraising events.
- Free on-site parking.
- Free on-site fitness facility.