Credit Analyst

About The Company

Investar Bank National Association is a reputable financial institution committed to providing comprehensive banking services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. With a strong focus on community engagement and personalized service, Investar Bank has established itself as a trusted partner in financial growth and stability. The bank prides itself on its integrity, professionalism, and dedication to fostering long-term relationships with its customers. Leveraging innovative banking solutions and a customer-centric approach, Investar Bank continues to expand its footprint and enhance its service offerings to support individuals, small businesses, and large enterprises alike.

About The Role

The Commercial Loan Underwriter plays a critical role within Investar Bank’s lending team, responsible for evaluating and assessing loan requests related to commercial real estate and industrial transactions. This position involves conducting thorough financial analysis, reviewing collateral documentation, and making informed recommendations regarding loan approvals or declines. The ideal candidate will possess a keen eye for detail, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment. As a key contributor to the bank’s risk management and credit quality assurance, the underwriter ensures that all loan requests align with the bank’s policies, regulatory requirements, and strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in commercial loan underwriting, with a proven track record of evaluating complex financial transactions.
• Strong knowledge of financial statements, tax returns, and cash flow analysis.
• Experience with reviewing collateral documentation, including appraisals, environmental reports, and title reports.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Knowledge of banking regulations, credit policies, and risk management practices.

Responsibilities

• Prescreen and underwrite loan requests related to commercial real estate and industrial transactions, ensuring thorough analysis of financial statements, tax returns, and other relevant financial data.
• Recommend loan approval, structuring, or decline based on comprehensive financial and collateral evaluations.
• Review borrower’s financial statements, lease agreements, rent rolls, and operating statements for multi-family and commercial properties.
• Compare property performance metrics to market comparables and develop pro-forma cash flow statements to support lending decisions.
• Assess collateral quality by reviewing title reports, appraisals, environmental assessments, and physical condition reports.
• Evaluate the location, physical condition, economic viability, and management quality of collateral properties.
• Analyze receivables, inventory reports, equipment valuations, and other documentation critical to industrial and commercial loan requests.
• Monitor ongoing covenant compliance, borrowing bases, and asset-based line of credit draws to ensure continued loan viability.
• Review organizational documents, credit reports, and other pertinent information to support credit analysis.
• Develop comprehensive credit workbooks, including household summaries, transaction explanations, cash flow analyses, and credit recommendations.
• Conduct periodic reviews of existing loans and relationships to ensure compliance with bank policies and risk management standards.
• Assist loan officers in collecting updated financial documentation and supporting materials for new and existing loans.
• Ensure all work complies with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and guidelines.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the lending team and organizational objectives.

Benefits

Investar Bank offers a competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. Benefits include health insurance options, dental and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. The bank fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, encouraging employees to develop their skills and advance their careers. Additionally, employees have access to various training programs, wellness initiatives, and employee recognition programs that promote a positive workplace culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Investar Bank is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class. We believe in providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and fostering a work environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to our success.

Key skills/competency

• Commercial Loan Underwriting
• Financial Analysis
• Credit Risk Assessment
• Collateral Evaluation
• Real Estate Transactions
• Financial Statements
• Cash Flow Analysis
• Banking Regulations
• Risk Management
• Loan Approval