Branch Network Planning Manager

Overview
The Branch Network Planning Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategies that optimize First Merchants Bank's physical distribution network. This role uses market analytics, financial modeling, and subject matter expertise to recommend branch openings, relocations, consolidations, and off-site ATM placements. The position ensures alignment with the bank's strategic growth objectives, capital priorities, and customer experience standards. This role also leads the communication of branch strategy and coordinates all branch distribution initiatives with internal and external partners.

Key Responsibilities:

Network Strategy & Optimization

• Analyze market demographics, competitive activity, and branch performance to identify expansion, consolidation, or relocation opportunities.
• Develop short- and long-term branch network strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Oversee facility design considerations in alignment with operating models, segmentation strategy, and industry trends.
• Define metrics to measure the effectiveness of network changes and investments.

Real Estate & Capital Planning

• Partner with Facilities on lease renewals, site evaluations, and insights for new builds or relocations.
• Prepare business cases and ROI models for branch and ATM investments; collaborate with Finance to strengthen back-testing frameworks.
• Coordinate the annual branch capital budgeting process across Finance, Facilities, IT, Marketing, and Bank Protection.

Market Expansion & Strategic Assessment

• Identify high-potential markets for new branches and ATMs using geo-spatial and financial analytics.
• Evaluate market disruption from mergers and acquisitions to identify optimization opportunities.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate with Real Estate, Construction, Marketing, Finance, and Operations to execute network changes.
• Ensure consistent brand standards and customer experience across all branch locations.
• Provide strategic guidance to Marketing and Facilities on brand expenditures, signage, and facility design.

Governance & Risk Management

• Integrate compliance, risk controls, and operational policies into branch planning decisions.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging retail banking practices, adjusting strategies accordingly.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Real Estate, or related field (MBA preferred).
• 5-10 years of experience in branch network planning, retail banking strategy, or real estate management.
• Strong proficiency in geo-spatial analysis, financial modeling, and market research.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional projects and managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, especially with senior leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in multi-site retail operations or financial services network optimization.
• Familiarity with GIS tools, predictive analytics, and site selection software.
• Knowledge of facilities planning, retail banking trends, or commercial real estate processes.