CRA Analyst & Program Manager

Description

The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Analyst & Program Manager will work directly with the Bank’s CRA Officer and Chief Compliance Officer to manage all aspects of the CRA compliance program.  Key responsibilities include conducting file reviews and scrubs, assessing the Bank’s performance relative to peers, maintaining files and supporting documentation, and managing essential elements of the program. This role will assist the CRA Officer in developing and executing initiatives to ensure the Bank meets community needs and achieves CRA compliance objectives. Additionally, the position will involve fostering and maintaining relationships with community-based organizations, charities, housing initiatives, and non-profits.  

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Key Responsibilities and Duties:

• Data Management and Reporting: 

        o Manage the operational aspects of the Bank’s CRA Program, including data collection, review of loan reports and CAMs to identify potential community development loans, verifying appropriate coding and validating data for reporting purposes.

        o Identify and maintain detailed records of community development loans and supporting documentation.

        o Review donations, sponsorships, and services for CRA eligibility, confirming amounts reconcile with the general ledger.

        o Track investment activities to make certain they align with CRA investment objectives and maintain accurate records.

        o Import data into the CRA system for reporting, resolving data integrity issues, and communicating any corrections to the relevant departments for accuracy.  Responsible for the annual preparation and submission of CRA data.

        o Update and maintain the Bank’s CRA Public file and branch notices as necessary. 

        o Prepare periodic self-assessment CRA reports for management review and use.

        o Assist in preparation of CRA audits and exams, including collecting necessary information and responding to inquiries and requests.

• Program Management: Review and make edits, as necessary, to compliance policies and procedures to ensure they align with regulatory changes and industry’s best practices.

        o Review and update compliance policies and procedures to ensure they align with regulatory changes and industry best practices.

        o Actively participate in and take a leadership role within the CRA Steering Committee.

        o Foster relationships with market leaders to make sure CRA initiatives are being met, and provide guidance for improvement as needed.

        o Review and update policies, procedures, and risk assessments regularly.

        o Collaborate with systems vendors to address issues or seek guidance when necessary

        o Attend community reinvestment meetings, such as FDIC events and local community convenings, to stay informed of local initiatives and build relationships with key community groups and organizations.

• Training & Education: Successfully completes all required training and remains compliant by reviewing and following all relevant bank policies and procedures, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of banking rules and regulations, including adherence to internal BSA/AML/OFAC policies and procedures.  Provide instructor-led training as needed, including developing training materials and conducting sessions in person or via webinars, to ensure a clear understanding of internal bank policies and regulatory requirements.  

• Regulatory Adherence: Maintain a current understanding of the CRA, including keeping up with proposed CRA modernization rules, fair lending practices, and other lending regulations.  Communicate regulatory updates and pending changes to management.

• Cross-Department Support: Respond to emails promptly and collaborate with other departments to provide CRA-related assistance and enhance the overall effectiveness of CRA processes.

• Additional Responsibilities: Execute all other duties as assigned by management, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability within the compliance function.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills:

• Education/Experience: Advanced degree (bachelor’s or higher) is preferred; High School diploma or GED is required.  Candidates with a combination of coursework and experience, or extensive CRA-related professional experience (minimum 3-5 years in a related field), are eligible for consideration.  Experience with CRA exams in a financial institution is desired. 

• Operational & Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of lending operations, along with the banking regulations that govern them.

• Organizational & Project Management: Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects efficiently and effectively.  

• Analytical Skills & Attention to Detail: Exceptional ability to analyze data, identify compliance risks, and implement corrective actions when necessary. Meticulous attention to detail in reviewing performance evaluations, policies, CAMs, and data.

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex regulatory requirements.  Professional demeanor with a positive attitude and the ability to work effectively with colleagues at all levels of the organization.

• Technology: Proficiency in compliance-related software and MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

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Additional Competencies:

• Ability to self-motivate, work independently, manage multiple priorities effectively, meet deadlines, and maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations.   

• Strong ethical standards, organizational and time management skills, and a commitment to upholding the integrity of the institution

• Proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement in compliance processes.