Embedded Banking Relationship Manager

Summary

We are looking for an Embedded Banking Relationship Manager to join our Embedded Banking group. In this role, you will own the partner lifecycle for assigned embedded banking relationships, driving strategic growth while balancing commercial objectives with strong risk stewardship in a regulated bank environment.

Responsibilities

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with external partners and internal stakeholders

• Ability to proactively network, build a prospect pipeline, and develop new partner relationships through outreach and referrals

• Demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers, advance opportunities, and close complex partnership agreements

• Comfort working in a performance-driven environment with sales goals, measurable targets, and a focus on results

• Strong critical thinking, analytical skills, and comfort working with data and ambiguity

• Clear, confident communication skills with executive-level presence (written and verbal)

• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a proactive approach to issue identification

• Demonstrated alignment with Academy Bank’s values and commitment to responsible banking

• Drive for continuous learning and professional development

• Ability to operate effectively in evolving, non-standard business models typical of embedded banking and fintech partnerships

• Own the strategic relationship, commercial performance, and lifecycle management for assigned embedded banking partners

• Maintain a strong working knowledge of program structures, regulatory expectations, and sponsor-bank responsibilities to support partner programs effectively

• Develop and maintain partner-specific strategic plans aligned to Academy Bank’s embedded banking strategy and risk appetite

• Partner with internal teams and external partners on contract terms, pricing structures, and growth initiatives

• Advocate for partner opportunities internally and help partners navigate bank governance, risk review, and approval processes

• Identify and drive new growth opportunities; manage partner pipeline from prospecting through maturity

• Engage prospective partners and assess fit based on strategic alignment, operating model, and risk considerations

• Develop deep knowledge of partner business models, decision-makers, products, customer experience, industry trends, and competitive landscape

• Partner with Program Management, Compliance, Risk, Legal, and Operations to support onboarding, change management, issue resolution, and ongoing oversight

• Prioritize work based on partner objectives, risk profile, and business impact

• Strengthening partner relationships through regular communication, follow-up, and performance reviews

• Provide timely updates to internal stakeholders on partner performance, agreements, program changes, pricing, and emerging risks/issues

• Coordinate closely with Program Managers to align priorities, manage escalations, and resolve key issues

• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the role

Skills

• Communicate clearly and professionally with internal and external stakeholders, strong attention to detail

• Distill complex regulatory, operational, and commercial topics into clear recommendations and actions

• Execute independently while collaborating effectively across functions and levels

• Adapt quickly in a fast-paced, evolving embedded banking environment

• Intellectually curious, self-motivated, and comfortable asking questions to solve problems

• Balance growth objectives with strong risk discipline and controls mindset

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience

• 5–8+ years of experience in banking, fintech, payments, card programs, BaaS, or technology-enabled financial services

• Experience with financial products, partnership-based business models, or embedded banking programs

• Proven track record in customer development, relationship management, and retention across senior stakeholder groups

• Experience working within or alongside regulated financial institutions and/or FinTech’s

Physical Requirements

The work environment is typical of a standard office or retail banking setting. The position is sedentary, involving sitting most of the workday; however, the position will involve moving about the workspace to reach entrances/exits, restrooms, conference rooms, or other areas within the work environment. Reaching may be required involving the ability to move arms in any direction. Office equipment, such as a computer and telephone, will be used requiring the ability to manipulate a keyboard, mouse, and/or keypad. The ability to decipher a computer screen or written documents is necessary. The ability to express or exchange ideas; impart information to clients, coworkers, or the public; or to convey detailed or important instructions; is required. The ability to receive and understand detailed information shared through oral or written communication is required.

Compensation & Benefits

The Embedded Banking Relationship Manager pay range is $100,000 - $125,000.

Full‐time associates are eligible for our benefits package:

• Medical

• Dental

• Vision

• 401(k) plan

• Company paid life insurance

• Short and Long-term disability insurance

• Company paid vacation, paid leave and holidays

This position will remain open until a qualified applicant is hired.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans

Academy Bank and Armed Forces Bank provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, disability. Academy Bank and Armed Forces Bank provides affirmative action data on protected veteran status or disability. If you need an accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email [email protected]