COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Skyward Credit Union supports those who design, build, and sustain the aviation industry by providing innovative financial guidance and solutions. We are dedicated to serving our members with excellence and integrity. Our mission is to be the trusted financial partner for aviation professionals, offering tailored services to help achieve their financial goals. Based in Wichita, KS, we are committed to supporting the community we serve.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Chief Lending Officer (CLO) is a key executive leader responsible for directing and advancing all lending operations at Skyward Credit Union, including consumer, mortgage, and member business lending. As a member of the executive team, the CLO develops strategies that balance growth, profitability, and sound credit risk management. This role provides vision and leadership to ensure lending activities align with the credit union’s mission, enhance the member experience, and support long-term financial sustainability.
The CLO fosters innovation and leverages technology to optimize lending processes, and ensures adherence to federal, state, and NCUA regulations. By guiding lending managers and staff, the CLO builds a collaborative culture that drives portfolio growth, operational excellence, and member satisfaction.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or related field required.
• Advanced education in credit analysis, risk management, or financial services preferred.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE:

• Extensive knowledge of consumer, mortgage, and business lending practices, credit analysis, and risk management.
• Strong familiarity with NCUA regulations and other state and federal compliance standards.
• Proficiency in data analytics and use of technology to drive decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Understanding of credit union philosophy, member needs, and competitive lending market dynamics.

EXPERIENCE:

• 10+ years of progressive lending experience, including senior leadership within a credit union or financial institution.
• Proven success in managing and expanding loan portfolios across multiple lending segments.
• Demonstrated expertise in underwriting, credit risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration, and building high-performance cultures.
• Successful track record of leveraging technology and process improvements to optimize lending operations.

SKILLS/ABILITES:

• Visionary leadership and the ability to inspire and guide teams.
• Strong strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for engagement with staff, members, regulators, and board members.
• Financial acumen and ability to balance growth, profitability, and risk.
• Member-centric approach with a commitment to delivering exceptional service.

• Direct mortgage, consumer, indirect, and member business lending operations, ensuring they are member-focused, compliant, and efficient.
• Lead the development and execution of lending strategies that align with the credit union’s overall mission and multi-year strategic plan.
• Oversee lending policies, procedures, and compliance with regulatory requirements; manage audits and examinations, ensuring timely corrective actions.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to direct reports.
• Implement technology and process enhancements to improve efficiency, underwriting accuracy, and member experience.
• Identify, develop, and recommend new or enhanced lending products to meet member needs and support portfolio growth and earnings.
• Monitor loan portfolio performance, credit quality, and concentration levels; adjust strategies to manage profitability and mitigate risk.
• Provide regular portfolio and lending performance reports to the Board of Directors and participate in policy and strategy discussions.
• Partner with internal stakeholders and external partners, including regulators, examiners, and industry peers, to strengthen lending practices and organizational reputation.
• Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to keep lending operations competitive and compliant.