Job Summary
The Director, Structured Trade & Commodity Finance (STCF) is responsible for origination, structuring, execution, and monitoring of structured trade and commodity finance transactions within the Trade Finance & Correspondent Banking (TFCB) division. The role focuses on business development, transaction execution, credit approvals, and post-disbursement portfolio management, ensuring Afreximbank’s expansion and diversification of African trade.
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in trade finance, commodity finance, structured finance, investment banking, and risk management, with a deep understanding of Africa’s trade markets and commodity value chains.
Key Responsibilities
Business Origination & Development
- Lead the origination and execution of trade finance transactions across various sectors in all Afreximbank Member States.
- Develop and execute tactical marketing plans to expand Afreximbank’s structured trade and commodity finance portfolio.
- Establish relationships with commodity traders, exporters, importers, and financial institutions operating in Africa.
- Design and implement market presence initiatives, including roadshows, trade events, and industry engagements.
- Lead the preparation of annual business development plans, covering all aspects of structured trade and commodity finance.
- Take ownership of the P&L for the Structured Trade & Commodity Finance department, ensuring revenue targets are met.
Transaction Structuring & Execution
- Structure and execute complex trade finance transactions, ensuring optimal risk mitigation and credit structuring.
- Develop and negotiate term sheets, Pre-Assessment Memos (PAMs), and Credit Approval Memos (CAMs) to secure internal approvals.
- Ensure transactions are sufficiently ring-fenced to ensure timely repayment and avoid defaults.
- Work closely with Legal and Credit teams to finalize transaction documentation and approvals.
- Lead negotiations with syndication partners, institutional investors, and development finance institutions for co-financing deals.
Portfolio Management & Credit Oversight
- Oversee the commodity trade finance portfolio, from origination to credit approval and contracting.
- Collaborate with the Banking Operations team to ensure timely disbursement and monitoring of transactions.
- Monitor early warning signals with the Credit Quality Assurance & Surveillance (CQAS) team to maintain a high-quality loan portfolio.
- Implement risk mitigation strategies to minimize exposure to volatile commodity markets.
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 internal compliance frameworks for structured trade and commodity finance transactions.
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 certification in Banking or International Trade Finance is an advantage.
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Experience:
- Minimum 15 years of experience in trade finance, structured trade finance, commodity finance, or corporate banking.
- Strong knowledge of syndications, co-financing, correspondent banking, project finance, and commodity-backed financing.
- Experience in relationship management with sovereigns, financial institutions, and corporate clients.
- Proven track record in developing and executing trade finance transactions across Africa.
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Technical Skills & Knowledge:
- Expertise in structured trade finance, transaction structuring, risk management, and credit evaluation.
- Proficiency in financial modeling, investment structuring, and credit risk analysis.
- Strong understanding of international trade finance instruments and regulatory frameworks.
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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, Structured Trade & Commodity Finance (STCF)” clearly stated in the email subject line for proper consideration.
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