Programs Manager - Lending for Economic Development

Overview

We are a long-standing and innovative national nonprofit organization committed to community and economic development. With a mission to increase capital access for investment, job creation, and community development in underserved urban and rural areas, we strive to make a positive impact. Through our dedicated efforts, we work to reduce racial and economic inequalities by providing much-needed capital and support to low-income entrepreneurs, minority- and women-owned businesses, and nonprofits serving communities of color.

In this role, you will play a vital part in expanding our small business, commercial real estate, and community facilities lending programs. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work independently, collaborate creatively, and make a real difference in underserved communities. You will be responsible for creating and managing programs that allow small businesses and developers to access capital, working closely with internal teams, lenders, investors, and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of lending, grant, and fund programs that align with our mission.
• Manage multiple complex programs simultaneously, often within tight timelines.
• Collaborate across internal departments and external partners to build effective processes, tools, and systems to achieve short- and long-term goals.
• Ensure compliance with requirements across various project types, working with multiple partners and funding sources.
• Establish and communicate expectations, requirements, and project statuses to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and implement metrics to monitor and assess program performance, impact, and compliance.
• Assist with the preparation of grant applications alongside internal and external teams.
• Implement and document processes for secure data transfer and sharing.
• Represent our organization's programs in various settings, building and maintaining relationships with professionals, community partners, developers, public officials, and financial organizations.
  
  

Qualifications And Skills

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, project management, real estate development, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• At least 7 years of experience in program management, financing, economic development, or community development.
• Expertise in managing programs and funds, with a passion for small business development and community revitalization.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with tactical execution—this is a hands-on role that requires you to serve as a leader, problem solver, and implementer.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Project, SharePoint) and familiarity with NetSuite, CRF intake, or SPARK underwriting platforms is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a customer-focused approach.
• Solid understanding of business credit and economic development resources used in small business development.
• Attention to detail, a commitment to high standards, and a passion for our mission of supporting underserved communities.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating responsibility and reliability.
• Exceptional customer service skills and an ability to communicate clearly with internal and external partners.
  
  

Why Join Us?

Benefits

You'll have the chance to work in a hybrid role with the flexibility of remote work and occasional travel. We offer a competitive salary in the range of \(130,000 to \)135,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 401(k)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
  
  

Schedule

• Monday to Friday
• Full-time
  
  

If you're passionate about economic development, lending, and making a real impact in underserved communities, we'd love to hear from you!

How To Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you're excited about this opportunity.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Employment Type: Full-Time