SBA Relationship Manager

Location:

726 Exchange Street, Buffalo New York

Job Summary
Partners with Business Banking Relationship Managers (BBRMs) to acquire new clients and expand share of wallet of existing client portfolio of businesses with annual sales from $3 to $10 million, with loan sizes between $500,001 and $5 million. Utilizes a robust network of centers of influence (COIs) and internal Business Banking sales partners to generate sound profitable growth. Works as the trusted advisor, positions the client relationship for deeper cross-sales by their relationship manager for a broad array of appropriate financial products and services, providing pertinent financial information to clients and identifying/referring cross-marketing opportunities. Researches and understands competitors' strengths/weaknesses and product offerings/pricing.

Essential Functions

• Maintains an in-depth knowledge of SBA products and a basic knowledge of broader business banking products and services as well as knowledge of competitors and competitive products.
• Prospects for opportunities and impacts district referral pipeline via established internal and external COIs; actively participates in community organizations to source business development opportunities and demonstrate the bank’s commitment to the local community.
• Makes joint calls with BBRMs and SBRMs to enhance their SBA product knowledge.
• Meets and exceeds individual sales goals while contributing to the overall sales success of the team.
• Maintains a current comprehensive understanding of client needs, based on the review and analysis of personal and business financial data and clearly understands what differentiates the bank in the marketplace.
• Partners with the credit campus to facilitate the underwriting process and credit approval.
• Ensures that new customer relationships consistently meet all compliance requirements; ensures all documents with loan are completed, correct and sent with loan documentation; works to resolve all loan document exceptions; understands how and why an exception occurred.
• Maintains ongoing contact with clients and offers the full bank to help support client growth initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities and/or activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice
• Complies with all KeyBank policies and procedures, including without limitation, acting professionally at all times, conducting business ethically, avoiding conflicts of interest, and acting in the best interests of Key’s clients and Key.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in business or related field (preferred)

• OR equivalent experience (required)

Work Experience

• A minimum of 1 year of experience in financial services with experience in developing current and new customer relationships, achieving sales goals and building referral sources. (preferred)
• Demonstrated small business deposit/credit experience and familiarity with small business operations. (preferred)

Skills

• Ability to understand how businesses operate, including financial drivers, market dynamics, and strategic priorities, to effectively position banking solutions.
• Commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of small business clients, building trust through personalized service and long-term relationship management.
• Expertise in financial products and services tailored to small businesses, including SBA loans and credit solutions for businesses with $3–10 million in annual sales.
• Skill in identifying client needs and presenting tailored financial solutions that drive value and close sales.
• Ability to proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking, community engagement, and internal referrals.
• Ongoing management of client relationships, ensuring satisfaction, retention, and growth through cross-selling and regular engagement.
• Familiarity with banking regulations, products, and services, especially those relevant to small business clients such as SBA lending and credit underwriting.
• Understanding of branch-level banking processes, compliance requirements, and operational workflows that support client transactions and service delivery.
• Ability to communicate effectively in formal and informal settings, including client meetings, team collaborations, and community events.
• Skill in organizing tasks, managing documentation, and streamlining workflows to ensure efficiency and compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed performance goals through persistence, accountability, and a focus on outcomes.
• Ability to navigate complex discussions with clients and internal stakeholders to reach mutually beneficial agreements.
• Capacity to analyze financial data, assess client needs, and develop strategic solutions that address challenges and opportunities.
• Commitment to maintaining compliance, managing credit risk, and upholding ethical standards in all client interactions.
• Proficiency in managing documentation, coordinating follow-ups, and supporting internal processes to ensure smooth client onboarding and servicing

Core Competencies

• All KeyBank employees are expected to demonstrate Key’s Values and abide by Key’s Code of Conduct.

Physical Demands

• General Office - Prolonged sitting, ability to communicate face to face in person or on the phone with teammates and clients, frequent use of PC/laptop, occasional lifting/pushing/pulling of backpacks, computer bags up to 10 lbs.

Travel

• Occasional travel to include overnight stay.

Work Location Category

• Hybrid (Sales)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This position is eligible to earn a base salary in the range of $71,000.00 - $125,000.00 annually. Placement within the pay range may differ based upon various factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and geographic location. Compensation for this role also includes eligibility for incentive compensation which may include production, commission, and/or discretionary incentives.

Please click here for a list of benefits for which this position is eligible.

Key has implemented an approach to employee workspaces which prioritizes in-office presence, while providing flexible options in circumstances where roles can be performed effectively in a mobile environment.

Job Posting Expiration Date: 07/09/2026 KeyCorp is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to sustaining an inclusive culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, pregnancy, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to apply on this site may request reasonable accommodations by emailing [email protected].

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