Community Relations Officer

Job Description:

The Community Relations Officer at Heritage Grove is responsible for increasing the credit union’s reach in diverse communities. This position will play a vital role in creating positive change and enhancing the well-being of the communities we serve. They will work closely with community members, employees, members, stakeholders, and organizations to identify needs, develop strategies, and implement initiatives.

As our Community Relations Officer, you will play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and driving positive social change within the community.

They will develop and implement inclusive programs, focusing on financial literacy and educational initiatives. The community Relations Officer manages sponsorships, donations, and community partnerships. They coordinate events, engage in direct community outreach, and cultivate relationships with internal and external partners. The officer represents Heritage Grove at public events and stays updated on industry trends in order to best serve our communities, our membership, and our employees.

Job Functions:

• Increase reach of Heritage Grove among diverse communities.
• Identify, solicit, cultivate, and develop beneficial business relationships with various partners.
• Actively engage with people in a friendly, positive, and professional manner.
• Represent the credit union at trade shows, business gatherings and social events with the objective of developing partnerships, sponsorships, and membership development in the community.
• Develop and implement sales strategies for increased market penetration.
• Coordinate the communication of information, products and services, promotions and presentations to business partners and supply them with credit union materials as needed.
• Work with key business partner representatives to sponsor events and presentations that introduce the credit union to potential members.
• Participate in activities that build goodwill with current and potential indirect dealers and the communities served by Heritage Grove.
• Assists with marketing and sales planning, including an analysis of competitive products/services and selling techniques, pricing, and distribution.
• Partner with VP of Lending, Marketing and Heritage Grove Management and Staff to achieve stated lending goals and improve sales and service culture.
• Handle business partner/member conflicts by effectively communicating with all parties and working to a favorable resolution.
• Conducts market research and makes recommendations for product/service modifications or improvements.
• Actively promote and develop Heritage Grove’s small-business program and Orchard Lending program to existing and perspective business clients.
• Facilitate and co-facilitate member education for auto loan, mortgage, Orchard lending, and other credit union products.
• Adhere to federal and state regulations, credit union policies and other compliance obligations.
• Participate in required training.
• Maintain punctual, regular, and predictable attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Skills required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to communicate effectively and project a professional image when giving and taking information in writing, in person and over the phone.
• Preference will be given to bilingual applicants
• Sophisticated word processing and computer database skills.
• Excellent sales and customer service skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work with individuals and groups at all organization levels; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Exhibit a professional, businesslike appearance and demeanor.
• Gain/Grow extensive knowledge of Heritage Grove and competitor products.
• Possess knowledge of loan-product specific requirements.
• Ability to take initiative and prioritize tasks; good time-management, organizational, problem-prevention and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Strong analytical ability with active listening skills.
• Ability to work accurately with high attention to detail.
• Willingness to adapt to changing business needs and deadlines.
• Possess a work ethic that includes neatness, punctuality and accuracy.