Availa Bank in Fort Dodge has announced the hiring of Craig Schlienz as senior loan officer.

In his new role, Schlienz will be responsible for developing new and existing commercial client relationships, ensuring the needs of the business are met, including loans, deposits, and cash management services.

Schlienz has a strong educational background, with degrees from Iowa Central Community College, the University of Iowa, and Barrett Graduate School of Banking in Memphis, TN.

He previously held positions at various banks as a deposit/loan operations supervisor, market manager, branch manager, senior vice president (loan operations/loan servicing), and market president.

Schlienz grew up in Fort Dodge, briefly leaving for college before coming back in 2003 to begin a career in banking.

“We are excited to have Craig join our Availa team,” said Dave Flattery, Fort Dodge market president. “Craig brings to the bank years of experience in both bank operations and lending. He is active in the community and strives to make the Fort Dodge region a better place to live and work.”

Schlienz currently serves as a development board member for St. Edmond Catholic Schools Foundation, a parish council member for Holy Trinity Catholic Church, a member of the finance committee for St. Edmond Catholic School, a board member for Shellabration Inc. and the Fort Dodge Community Recreation Center, and as an active member of the Noon Kiwanis Club.