SBA Business Development Officer - La Jolla - CalPrivate Bank

Description

The Role: SBA Business Development Officer
The Location: California
Reports To: SBA Sales Director
Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
At CalPrivate Bank, we believe banking is personal. We have deep roots in the communities we serve, and our client relationships are built on genuine care, thoughtful problem-solving, and unwavering integrity. Our solutions-based service, paired with best-in-class talent, sets us apart in the market, but it's trust that defines who we are. It's our gold standard, the currency we trade in, and the foundation of every decision we make. We're looking for leaders who want more than a title. We're looking for team players who want to make an impact. If you're driven to lead with purpose, ready to shape the future and have meaningful impact at a relationship-centered bank, CalPrivate Bank may be the place for you.
Your Opportunity: SBA Business Development Officer
The SBA Business Development Officer (BDO) is responsible for sourcing, developing, and closing SBA 7(a) and 504 lending opportunities that support the growth of small businesses within the Bank's target markets. This role proactively identifies and cultivates relationships with business owners, commercial real estate investors, referral partners, brokers, and centers of influence to build a strong and sustainable lending pipeline. The BDO guides clients through the full SBA lending process, underwriting preparation, structuring, documentation, and funding, while ensuring transactions align with SBA program requirements, internal credit standards, and the Bank's risk appetite.
Through disciplined business development activity and a consultative approach, the BDO plays a critical role in expanding the Bank's SBA portfolio, strengthening credit quality, and elevating CalPrivate's presence as a trusted partner for small business financing. The impact of this role extends beyond originations; by fostering strong external relationships and partnering closely with internal teams including Credit, Closing, Operations, and Deposit Services-the SBA BDO helps deliver a seamless and high-touch client experience. Their contributions directly support departmental growth, enhance fee and interest income, and reinforce the Bank's mission to provide distinctly different, relationship-driven financial solutions that enable businesses to thrive.
What You'll Do

• Engage in business development activities to source and close SBA loan requests.
• Interview prospective applicants and requests specified information related to loan application; continually correspond with applicants to resolve questions regarding application information.
• Gather and analyze all information necessary to present a financing request to underwriter, SBA Department Manager, President/CEO, Chief Credit Officer, etc.
• Perform prequalification assessment and analysis of applicant's financial condition.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of financial industry, economy, market conditions, rates, vendors and competition.
• Continuously strengthen the referral source network. Meet with prospects and referral sources to generate leads whenever possible.
• Leverage centers of influence by proactively fostering quality relationships.
• Stay actively involved with professional and/or community organizations by representing CalPrivate Bank at appropriate professional and community events.
• Participate in cross-referrals with other bank staff. Create an atmosphere of teamwork and collaboration throughout CalPrivate Bank.
• Cross-sell CalPrivate Bank's other products and services as appropriate.
• Host educational sessions/give presentations to bank staff, prospects and centers of influence to review SBA products and programs.
• Address customer service issues with both clients and bank staff as needed.

AML/CFT/Compliance Responsibilities
This position includes direct or indirect interaction with customers and other employees and therefore includes responsibilities relating to BSA/AML. The employee will have opportunity to examine and view information and documents produced by other employees of the Bank relating to BSA and therefore has the obligation to report suspicious activity to the BSA Officer as appropriate. The employee is responsible for understanding and following the Bank's BSA/AML policies including elevating suspicious activity to the BSA Officer. Additionally, the employee is required to understand and follow the Bank's compliance program BSA/AML policies including elevating suspicious activity to the BSA Officer. Additionally, the employee is required to understand and follow the Bank's compliance program.
Who You Are
Experience & Expertise

• 5+ years of progressive experience in SBA lending, with a proven track record originating SAB 7(a) and/or 504 loans, preferably within a private or commercial banking environment.
• In-depth knowledge of SBA program guidelines, SOP requirements, credit structures, eligibility standards, and documentation processes.
• Demonstrated success in business development, including building and maintaining referral networks with brokers, CPAs, attorneys, real estate professionals, and small business centers of influence.
• Strong credit acumen, including the ability to analyze financial statements, evaluate collateral, assess risk, and structure complex lending solutions.
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills, with the ability to engage small business owners, provide consultative guidance, and deliver a high-touch experience aligned with CalPrivate's service culture.
• Proven ability to manage a high-volume pipeline, while meeting production goals, deadlines, and compliance expectations with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, with experience partnering closely with underwriting, credit administration, operations, and deposit teams to ensure smooth loan processing.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with loan origination systems, financial analysis tools, CRM platforms, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field preferred.

Mindset & Values

• You lead with accountability, integrity, and consistency.
• You thrive in a collaborative environment where transparency and follow-through matter.
• You model professionalism, calm under pressure, and have a solutions-oriented mindset.
• You embrace data-driven decision-making while maintaining a client-first perspective.
• You embody CalPrivate's culture, heart for client, excellence in service, and deep commitment to the Bank and its people.

Physical Demands

• Requires 50% travel in order to support clients, cultivate business development opportunities and meeting with prospects.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to physically use a keyboard/mouse
• Ability to walk to and from workstations
• Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 10lbs and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus

Why CalPrivate Bank?
This isn't just another bank job. At CalPrivate Bank, you will be part of something bigger. Our day-to-day operations and projects don't just impact a balance sheet, they influence real people, real businesses, and the communities we proudly serve. We are guided by our commitment to relationships, solutions, and trust. And we're building a team of people who reflect those values in everything they do.