Business Aviation Lender

Position: Business Aviation Lender

Department: Commercial Lending

Location: Wichita, KS (On-Site)

Job Type: Full-Time/Salary

Jump start your career at Equity Bank!

We are currently hiring energetic, team oriented, and community focused individuals to join our team! With a team of best-in-class customer service experts, you'll help to build and expand on client relationships, deliver the banking products and services that meet the unique and individual needs of clients, and create and uphold an atmosphere of superior experience and service. At Equity Bank we’ll help you invest in your community through volunteer opportunities which align with our company initiatives and core values.

The Business Aviation Lender

is an expert in the private aviation industry who will work closely with the Sr. Lending Officer & Commercial Bankers to develop and manage the company’s aircraft loan portfolio. This role is an important client-facing position with frequent interactions with ultra-high net worth prospects and clients seeking financing alternatives and advice for their aviation transportation needs. The target candidate is a recognized expert within the private aviation industry with strong industry ties including aircraft manufacturers, management companies, aviation brokers, consultants, and aviation counsel. The candidate must have good commercial awareness, excellent communication skills and be a team player. The individual will work with clients to understand their air travel requirements to help select the right aircraft and provide financing options.

Responsibilities and Expectations

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the strategic direction of Equity Bank’s aircraft financing program and manage portfolio goals
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, prospects, industry bodies, and market participants
• Partner with EQBK Commercial Bankers to generate new aircraft lending business
• Represent EQBK at aviation industry events (NBAA, NAFA, Wichita Aero Club, etc.)
• Collaborate with Aircraft Valuation Specialists to assess and value aircraft collateral
• Structure financing solutions that balance client needs, risk, and regulatory compliance
• Monitor market conditions, competitor activity, and industry trends to maintain competitive advantage
• Cross-sell commercial products including loans, deposits, treasury management, and trade services

Industry Knowledge

• Deep knowledge of aviation sector trends, drivers, and global regulatory environment
• Leverage expertise and industry network to guide clients through complex financing transactions
• Strong understanding of aircraft valuation drivers and trends
• Monitor and analyze changing industry dynamics and regulatory frameworks

Customer Service

• Manage and service commercial client relationships, providing high-touch engagement
• Understand clients’ business and risk profiles to enhance relationships and retention
• Adhere to EQBK policies and procedures while maintaining excellent customer service

Profitability

• Maximize client profitability to meet EPS and annual financial targets
• Optimize loan pricing, fee income, and deposit rates
• Consistently meet or exceed financial goals set by management

Credit Quality / Credit Administration

• Maintain acceptable levels of delinquencies, non-performing loans, and classified assets
• Analyze credit risk thoroughly within the underwriting process
• Communicate potential credit downgrades promptly and effectively
• Ensure credit and documentation exceptions remain within EQBK standards

Quality of Work

• Deliver consistent, high-quality work in credit analysis and risk management
• Exhibit strong time management, organization, and planning skills
• Apply sound business acumen and technical knowledge in underwriting and risk assessment
• Provide effective problem-solving and practical solutions beyond the obvious

Interpersonal Skills / Cooperation

• Demonstrate a cooperative spirit, positive attitude, and ethical behavior
• Contribute to a professional work environment, communicating concerns respectfully
• Build rapport with clients through approachability and dedication to meeting expectations

Adhere to Processes and Procedures for Aircraft Financing

• Follow established loan policies and appraisal methods
• Source new aircraft loan opportunities through professional networks
• Support EQBK Commercial Bankers from deal origination through loan closing
• Assist with deal structure, operations review, LOIs, credit memo language, and loan documentation
• Collaborate with Marketing to enhance materials for aircraft financing

Required Skills & Education

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years’ experience within aircraft finance at either a financial institution or directly in the private aviation industry
• Thorough and practical understanding of aircraft financing programs, regulatory requirements, and experience in business generation
• Must have a good understanding of commercial loan terms, loan programs and documents
• Excellent interpersonal skills and professional acumen
• Computer skills
• Good organizational and analytical skills

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree; business, finance or accounting
• 5+ years previous OEM business aircraft sales experience
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications

Who We Are

Equity Bank, a full-service, $6 billion community bank, is based in Wichita, Kansas, with 72 bank offices throughout Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

At Equity Bank, you can find exciting opportunities to challenge you, expand your skills, and reward your contributions. Our employees receive competitive compensation and benefits, while working in an atmosphere that encourages personal and professional growth. We’re searching for motivated individuals who are passionate about serving others, learning new technologies, and working as part of a team.

Equity Bank offers a full range of financial solutions, including online and mobile banking, commercial loans, consumer banking, and mortgage loans, treasury management service, the best solutions for your business, and absolutely zero ATM fees, anywhere.

What’s in it for you?

We believe your benefits are an important part of your overall compensation package. We work year-round to ensure that we provide our employees with the most up-to-date, competitive program. We thoroughly evaluate our benefit plans and strive to provide quality benefits that support the physical and financial well-being of our employees and their families.

Benefits Available:

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Group Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Group Cancer Insurance
• 401(K) Retirement Plan w/Company Match
• Generous Vacation & Sick Time
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Pet Insurance
• Retail Banking Benefits

Find your future at Equity Bank!

The above statements are intended to generally describe the nature and level of work to be performed by most people assigned to this job. It is not intended as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements.

Physical Requirements

This position requires standing, walking, bending, and squatting on a regular basis. May require the ability to stoop, kneel, crouch or reach with hands and arms. Requires the ability to carry, lift, move or push up to 25 pounds on an occasional basis. Must be able to talk and listen to others.

Work Environment

This position regularly works in an office setting. Most of the job duties require the employee to be working with computers and electronic media on a regular basis.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Equity Bank is an equal opportunity employer and will not make employment decisions based on an applicant’s race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.