Operations Innovation Analyst III

First American Bank was founded in Chicago, and over the years has expanded throughout Wisconsin and Florida. As the largest privately held bank in Illinois, we now have over 60 locations and assets of $5+ billion. We are a community bank at heart with international expertise, traditional values, and a forward-looking philosophy. Our employees have the experience and vision to meet the needs of savers, borrowers, and businesses in the 21st century. First American Bank can offer employees a level of visibility, career growth, and stability that is difficult to find in many larger corporations.

This position is responsible for implementing and reviewing process improvements for the Operations Departments to optimize efficiencies and productivity by completing projects using the discovery of new ideas or ways of working that will improve the company's output. In addition, the position will manage risks associated with business objectives and activities to ensure regulatory and compliance requirements are satisfied. This position also trains and mentors members of the department.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsible for leading project teams and managing various projects, including option comparison and cost/benefit analysis through to completion, with an emphasis on regulatory needs, cost efficiencies, and sales opportunities. Effectively utilize resources and research strategies.

Understand project stakeholders' needs and requirements to execute projects effectively. Utilize experience and use professional judgment to make sole determinations and decisions regarding projects while remaining in line with project and stakeholder goals to produce a satisfactory end-product. Ensure all project tasks and phases are completed and satisfactory before moving to the next assignment. Demonstrate a sense of urgency; adhere to deadlines, and effectively manage multiple projects.

Recommend procedural improvements to enhance processes related to the goals of the department and its objectives, as they align with project stakeholders' expectations.

Responsible for interpreting data analytics to implement process improvements, recommend, and test system enhancements to update operational procedures.

Work independently with other department staff members or external managers to develop new reports/processes or requested changes to existing reports/processes.

Determine best practices while developing new reports or processes. Document steps and processes efficiently for training and retention purposes.

Coordinate with department manager, staff members, outside vendors, and other First American Bank departments to ensure that all activities and projects are completed efficiently and produce better business outcomes.

Assess and effectively manage all the risks associated with business objectives and activities to ensure regulatory and compliance requirements are satisfied.

Mentor other colleagues on procedures/guidelines. Assist with training and coaching for less experienced support staff on procedures, policies, and regulations.

Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to effectively assist team members with prioritizing tasks and adjusting priorities as business needs change, helping team members assess the needs of the department and project urgencies.

Lead the review and implementation of existing/new processes for Operations Departments by independently initiating new solutions that enhance the department's overall effectiveness and efficiency while satisfying compliance and regulatory requirements.

Leverage industry awareness, knowledge of regulatory expectations, and legal expertise to interpret rules and guidelines. Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for changes to regulations, identifying the impact of the regulations on the bank and communicating changes to internal stakeholders.

Conduct and complete additional assignments/projects as designated by management.

QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Minimum of five years project coordination or related technical skills required.

Knowledge of retail lending, mortgage loans, GSE loans and experience in loan servicing and investor reporting preferred.

Strong organizational skills and a desire to work in a fast paced, ever-changing environment is essential.

Demonstrate initiative and the ability to work independently to meet or exceed deadlines and ultimately be accountable for each project.

Ability to introduce concepts, discuss analysis, and present conclusions and recommendations in a clear and logical way.

Must be professional, comfortable speaking with external and internal contacts with a demonstrated ability to effectively tailor the message appropriately to the audience and situation.

Demonstrated ability to convey thoughts and ideas effectively and succinctly via written formats, including emails, letters, and electronic platforms. Maintain professional standards relating to spelling and grammar.

Maintain credibility through professional demeanor, appearance, and presence by modeling standards appropriate to our environment and industry

Ability to anticipate obstacles and communicate alternative strategies, as well as simultaneously working on multiple assignments that may range from problem solving to specific project management.

Ability to exercise sound judgment and dexterity to suitably navigate daily challenges; particularly when presented under the strict time constraints that are typically associated within the department.

Maintain good working relationships with internal partners by exhibiting exemplary interpersonal skills, adopting a constructive, solutions-focused approach.

Use sound professional judgment to balance the interests of the organization and stakeholder, understanding and using available resources to mitigate risks.

Proficiency with Microsoft 0365 products and applications, including the ability to effectively prepare or review documents, procedures, and reports.

Proficiency with Microsoft Power Platform required, specifically Power Bi, Power Automate, and Power Apps.

Demonstrated ability to learn new systems and applications, as well as the ability to understand, adapt and adjust responsibilities/workflows as a result of system upgrades.

A strong aptitude for database management, organization, and query analysis is required.

Prior design experience with MS Access is preferred.

Prior experience with Jack Henry Silverlake is preferred.

This position may require periodic travel to attend in person meetings and satisfy office obligations/responsibilities.

Typical scheduled hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional hours may be required depending upon business need.