Business Development Officer in Chicago, Illinois at Cooperative Business Services LLC

The CBS Difference
At Cooperative Business Services (CBS), we deliver premier commercial lending services and cutting-edge software solutions to financial institutions across the nation. Our expertise spans all property types, ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of our clients.Our vision is to revolutionize financial partnerships, where institutions thrive and people flourish. This vision drives us to continually innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the financial sector.Our mission is clear: to empower financial institutions with innovative thinking and market-leading business solutions. We are committed to providing the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the market, enabling our clients to achieve sustainable growth and success.Currently, CBS is in an exciting growth period as we position ourselves for 2026 and beyond. Join us on this journey as we continue to transform the future of financial institutions.
The Benefits of Being Part of the Team
At Cooperative Business Services, we believe in creating an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally. Here’s what you can look forward to as a valued member of our team:

• Compensation: Base compensation for this role ranges from $100,000 - $130,000. This role is also eligible for the Commercial Lender Incentive Program.
• Cell Phone Reimbursement
• Remote Work Environment (Preferred Time Zone: We are seeking candidates who are based in the Central Time Zone, specifically near Chicago, Illinois)
• Generous Holidays: Take advantage of 13 paid holidays each year
• Community Service Time: You will have eight hours of paid time each year for volunteer work. You can use this individually or join group activities.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Choose from a selection of medical, dental, vision, and supplemental benefit plans to suit your needs. Additionally, the company provides company-paid Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), and life insurance equivalent to 1 time your salary.
• 401(k) Plan: The company provides a generous matching contribution of up to 6%.
• Tuition Assistance

Your Role in Our Success
The Commercial Loan Officer (BDO) is responsible for originating, evaluating, and advancing commercial lending opportunities in alignment with organizational goals and credit union partner priorities. This role builds and manages referral relationships, guides borrowers through the lending process, and collaborates with internal teams to ensure efficient deal execution. The Commercial Loan Officer (BDO) plays a key role in driving loan growth, expanding client relationships, and representing the organization in the business community.
How You’ll Drive Impact

• Strategic Origination: Identify and evaluate commercial loan opportunities (CRE, SBA 7a/504, Lines of Credit) and perform initial deal architecture.
• Relationship Ecosystems: Cultivate high-value referral networks with CPAs, Brokers, and Attorneys to fuel a consistent, quality pipeline.
• Pipeline Orchestration: Collaborate with Underwriters and Closers to move deals from origination to funding with speed and precision.
• Market Growth & Strategy: Partner with Marketing to execute go-to-market strategies and maintain monthly touchpoints with Credit Union partners.
• Portfolio Intelligence: Stay informed on market conditions and regulatory changes to ensure sound, risk-conscious lending decisions.
• Brand Advocacy: Represent CBS at industry events and networking functions to expand market share and client relationships.
• Operational Excellence: Maintain rigorous standards for documentation, communication, and professional responsiveness.

Professional Foundation

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university is required.
• 5 years of experience in commercial real estate lending
• Syndication/participation lending knowledge highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of commercial loan products, credit analysis, and underwriting fundamentals.
• Excellent business development and client relationship skills.
• Professional demeanor with the ability to work effectively with clients, partners, and internal teams.
• Ability to clearly explain loan products and processes to borrowers and stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze financial statements and assess borrower creditworthiness.