Job Summary
The Director, Financial Institutions & Correspondent Banking will oversee origination, structuring, execution, and monitoring of trade finance transactions within the Financial Institutions & Correspondent Banking Department. The role focuses on business development, client relationship management, and financial solutions for financial institutions and sovereigns, ensuring alignment with Afreximbank’s mission of expanding and diversifying African trade.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in trade finance, corporate finance, investment banking, and risk management, with a deep understanding of financial institutions, correspondent banking, and African trade markets.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Client Management
- Lead and implement trade finance product and program strategies for Financial Institutions, Sovereigns, and Corporates.
- Deepen relationships with central banks, commercial banks, sovereign entities, and international financial institutions to drive business growth.
- Develop annual marketing plans and engagement strategies to expand Afreximbank’s correspondent banking and trade finance business.
- Collaborate with Client Relations teams to promote the Bank’s AFTRAF and AfPay correspondent banking offerings.
- Lead business development roadshows, events, and client engagement initiatives across key markets.
- Own the P&L for the Financial Institutions & Correspondent Banking Department, ensuring revenue growth and profitability.
- Allocate new transactions strategically to team members based on capacity and workload.
- Mentor and develop the team, providing leadership, guidance, and coaching.
Transaction Structuring & Execution
- Lead the structuring of trade finance facilities for financial institutions and sovereign clients across Africa.
- Supervise the origination, credit approval, and contracting process to ensure optimal transaction execution.
- Oversee the development and review of business Pre-Assessment and Credit Assessment Memoranda to align with the Bank’s risk policies.
- Address credit committee (CRECO) concerns on proposed transactions before final submission.
- Support the Credit and Legal Departments in transaction documentation and compliance.
- Ensure adherence to the Bank’s risk acceptance criteria and regulatory frameworks.
Market Monitoring & Strategy Execution
- Stay informed about emerging trade finance trends, risks, and regulatory changes.
- Develop strategies to enhance Afreximbank’s position in the financial institutions and sovereign lending space.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients to identify potential risks and mitigate early warning signs.
- Drive innovation by enhancing existing trade finance solutions and introducing new products tailored to Africa’s evolving financial landscape.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure adherence to Afreximbank’s AML, Regulatory, and Conduct Compliance policies, including:
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Counter-Terrorism Financing
- Conflicts of Interest & Insider Trading Policies
- Anti-Bribery & Corruption (ABC) Guidelines
- Report any suspicious or non-compliant activities to the Compliance Department.
- Complete the Annual Compliance Training & Assessment.
- Develop and oversee internal governance measures for transaction processing and risk assessment.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
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Education:
- Master’s degree in Business Administration, Banking, Finance, or a related field from a recognized university.
- A professional qualification in Banking or International Trade Finance is an advantage.
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Experience:
- Minimum 12 years of experience in trade finance, correspondent banking, corporate finance, or structured finance.
- Strong knowledge of syndication, co-financing, club deals, letters of credit, factoring, forfaiting, structured trade finance, and project-related financing.
- Experience interacting with central banks, sovereigns, and financial institutions.
- Proven ability to develop and market trade finance solutions to international and African financial institutions.
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Technical Skills & Knowledge:
- Expertise in trade finance structuring, risk management, and credit evaluation.
- Proficiency in financial modeling, investment structuring, and credit assessment.
- Strong understanding of African financial markets, international banking standards, and trade regulations.
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Soft Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (French, Arabic, or Portuguese is an advantage).
- Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to handle complex transactions, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
- High attention to detail, professionalism, and strategic thinking.
- Willingness to travel extensively to engage with stakeholders and oversee trade expansion initiatives.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CVs to Afreximbank@robertwalters.com with the job title “Director, Financial Institutions & Correspondent Banking” clearly stated in the email subject line for proper consideration.