Job Description

Lenders Cooperative is a forward-thinking group of former bankers, investment bankers, and technologists who recognize the need for better innovation and solutions to support financial institutions' commercial lending efforts. Our core mission is to help these institutions focus on their true strengths. Joining Lenders means being part of a mission-driven team that values innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. If you thrive in high-pressure environments where urgency meets creativity and where every challenge is an opportunity to create impact, then continue reading....

Lenders Cooperative seeks an SBA Closing Process Lead who will serve as the functional leader of the SBA closing team, with a primary focus on improving how closings are executed rather than directly managing people. The role will be responsible for designing and optimizing workflows, leveraging technology and automation (including AI), and ensuring high standards of quality and compliance across all loan closings.

The individual will serve as the team’s subject-matter expert and day-to-day leader, providing guidance on complex deals while driving continuous improvement in speed, accuracy, and scalability. Administrative reporting for the closing team would remain under the Originations Manager.

Key Objectives:

• Increase closing efficiency and reduce cycle times through process redesign
• Improve consistency and quality of loan documentation and compliance
• Drive adoption of technology, automation, and AI within the closing function
• Serve as a thought leader and mentor to the closing team

Ideal Candidate Profile:
We are looking for someone with strong SBA 7(a) closing expertise who is also comfortable with change, technology, and process innovation. This person should be able to challenge existing workflows, implement new solutions, and influence the team without formal management authority.

This role is intended to elevate the overall performance of the team rather than function as a traditional people manager.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building better ways of working...not just maintaining existing ones.

What We’re Looking For:

• 7–10 years of SBA 7(a) closing or related commercial lending experience
• Strong knowledge of SBA programs, SOPs, and compliance requirements
• Proven ability to improve or redesign processes, not just execute them
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Experience using LOS, document management systems, or similar tools to drive efficiency; interest in automation/AI a plus
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Effective communicator with the ability to influence others and drive process adoption
• Strong problem-solving skills, including handling complex or non-standard deals
• Commitment to staying current on SBA guidelines and contributing to continuous improvement

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive health coverage, plus free dental and vision
• Flexible hours and fully remote work options
• Unlimited PTO and company holidays
• Collaborative, inclusive, and growth-minded environment

What to Expect:

1. Apply — It only takes a few minutes.
2. HR Screen — If it’s a match, one of our recruiters will reach out to schedule a quick call.
3. Interviews — Meet the team, discuss the role, and explore how your skills fit our needs.
4. Decision — If it’s a great fit for both sides, we’ll make it official!

Candidates selected for a conditional offer will undergo a background check. A criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate; results are reviewed based on job relevance and applicable law.

If you’re ready to take ownership of the frontend experience and help shape a platform used by financial institutions nationwide, apply now—we can’t wait to meet you.

Lenders is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate our employees' unique differences because that drives curiosity, innovation, and the success of our business. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.