Entry-Level Banking Positions for Aspiring Relationship Managers
For undergraduates or graduates aiming for a relationship manager or commercial banker role, Claire suggests entry-level positions often begin with bank training programs, lasting two to three years, with the first year focused on learning "the processing side," progressing to underwriting and financial analysis in the second year, and culminating in a "portfolio manager type of role" before advancing to junior sales positions with quotas. This path provides a blend of operational knowledge and financial acumen, preparing individuals for eventual elevation to full sales roles.
Banking, Relationship Management, Commercial Banking, Training Programs, Loan Processing
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Claire Hunn
Assistant Vice President, Relationship Manager
Banking Industry
University of San Diego
University of Alabama - Masters of Science, Marketing
Business & Related
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing), Real Estate
Sales and Client Management
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level positions often start with bank training programs (e.g., US Bank, Wells Fargo) lasting 2-3 years.
2. The initial year of training focuses on the processing side, covering due diligence and operational basics.
3. Progression involves learning underwriting and financial analysis in the second year, followed by a hybrid portfolio manager role before advancing to a junior sales role.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate or graduate student might consider?
To typically reach a sales role, such as a relationship manager or commercial banker, they are essentially the same. Banks often have training programs, and some, like US Bank and Wells Fargo, have robust programs that last two to three years.
The first year of this training focuses on learning the processing side of the business, understanding how everything works. You essentially act as a loan processor, learning the basics, necessary due diligence items, and how it all fits together.
The second year is dedicated to learning how to underwrite and spread financials. The third year is a hybrid of the first two, considered a portfolio manager role. This position blends the duties of a loan processor and an underwriter, offering a mix of both.
From there, you are elevated to a junior sales role, where you have a small quota to bring in new business. This can come from the existing portfolio or new clients from outside the bank. This is the traditional path to achieving a full sales role.
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