SME Relationship & Lending Specialist SXM

Reports to: Manager Preferred Banking & SME Lending Solutions and Branch Manager SXM

Key responsibilities: 

• Client relationship management: Develop and maintain strong relationships with both existing and prospective SME clients. Act as the main point of contact for all client interactions, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly. Understand clients' needs, challenges, and objectives to provide customized banking solutions. 

• Lending solutions: Analyze and assess SME creditworthiness by reviewing financial statements, business plans, and other relevant information. Offer tailored lending solutions such as term loans, working capital financing, and other credit facilities based on the specific needs of each client. 

• Business development: Identify and pursue opportunities to expand the SME client base. Collaborate with the sales team to generate new leads and convert prospects into clients. Research industry trends and competitor activities to identify new business opportunities and contribute to the growth of the SME portfolio. 

• Product and service advisory: Provide expert advice on a range of banking products and services suited to SME clients. Promote additional products and services to enhance the value provided to clients. 

• Credit risk management: Monitor and manage the financial performance of assigned client accounts, ensuring they are performing as expected and align with the bank’s financial targets. Conduct regular reviews to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with SME lending. 

• Contract negotiation and documentation: Negotiate contract terms, pricing agreements, and other contractual elements with SME clients to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes. Ensure that all agreements comply with regulatory and internal policies by working closely with legal and compliance teams. 

• Compliance and regulatory adherence: Ensure that all lending and client management activities adhere to relevant regulations and compliance standards. Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to ensure all contracts and client transactions are in accordance with regulatory requirements. 

• Client onboarding and support: Facilitate the onboarding process for new SME clients, ensuring a smooth transition and integration into the bank’s systems. Provide ongoing support and personalized service to address any issues or questions that arise post-onboarding. 

• Industry and market insights: Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities. Utilize these insights to provide relevant advice to clients and identify new business opportunities for the bank. 


• Perform other duties as assigned: Additional responsibilities may be required as needed, ensuring flexibility in addressing evolving business needs and supporting the overall success of the team and clients.

Requirements: 

• Educational background: Bachelor's degree in finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. Advanced degrees or professional certifications in financial management or lending are a plus. 

• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in relationship management, lending, or financial services, specifically within the SME sector. Proven track record of managing client relationships and providing financial solutions. 

• Knowledge of SME sector: In-depth understanding of the SME sector, including common challenges, financial needs, and business operations. Ability to tailor banking solutions to fit the unique requirements of SME clients. 

• Sales expertise: Demonstrated success in sales and cross-selling financial products and services to meet client needs. Ability to identify opportunities to grow the portfolio, maximize account performance, and increase revenue generation through proactive client engagement. 

• Relationship management: Strong client relationship management skills, with a focus on building trust and long-term client loyalty. Expertise in negotiating contract terms and pricing agreements to secure business and ensure client satisfaction. 

• Working knowledge of MS Office: Proficiency in MS Office software is .  

Skills: 

• Effective communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and interacting with stakeholders. 

• Analytical thinking: Ability to analyze documentation processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop effective solutions. 

• Team collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.  

• Problem solving: Ability to address and resolve issues and compliance challenges effectively. 

• Organizational and time management skills: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment. 

• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changes in regulations, procedures, and organizational priorities. 

• Attention to detail: High level of accuracy in documentation and reporting to ensure compliance and quality. 

• Ethics and integrity: High ethical standards and the ability to act with integrity in all situations. 

• Financial acumen: Proficient understanding of financial principles and practices.