Job Summary
The Manager, Client Relations (FWAF Regional Office) is responsible for business development, client relationship management, and regional trade expansion. The role involves originating, structuring, and executing trade finance transactions, managing risk, and deepening relationships with corporate clients and government entities in the Francophone West Africa (FWAF) region.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in trade finance, business development, relationship management, and credit analysis, with knowledge of African trade policies and financial regulations.
Key Responsibilities
Client Coverage & Business Origination
- Conduct preliminary reviews of client requests and proposals to ensure they align with Afreximbank’s eligibility criteria.
- Implement client coverage plans for a portfolio of corporate and government clients, developing individualized relationship strategies.
- Identify and generate bankable trade finance leads by understanding customer needs and recommending financial solutions.
- Conduct business development initiatives, targeting new customers and strengthening relationships with existing clients.
- Develop and execute regional marketing and account plans in line with Afreximbank’s strategic objectives.
- Lead new business pitches and commercial negotiations to drive revenue growth.
- Represent Afreximbank in high-level client meetings, trade forums, and investment summits.
Transaction Structuring & Credit Analysis
- Prepare Pre-Assessment Memos, Credit Applications, and Indicative Term Sheets for new transactions.
- Conduct financial statement reviews, sector risk analysis, and creditworthiness assessments.
- Work closely with Credit Assessment Managers and Product Teams to structure viable financing solutions.
- Ensure timely development of due diligence documents, including Terms of Reference and RFPs.
- Monitor the performance of portfolio credits, tracking triggers and deviations to mitigate risk.
Stakeholder Engagement & Market Expansion
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with regional banks, trade finance institutions, investment houses, and government bodies.
- Engage with industry stakeholders to promote Afreximbank’s trade finance solutions.
- Collaborate with internal departments, including Legal, Compliance, and Banking Operations, to ensure seamless transaction execution.
- Conduct regulatory and industry updates to align the Bank’s products with evolving market dynamics.
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
- Manage KYC initiation and renewal processes, ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Report any suspicious or non-compliant activities to the Compliance Department.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
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Education:
- Master’s degree in Business Administration, Banking, Finance, or a related field from a recognized university.
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Experience:
- Minimum 8 years of experience in trade finance, corporate banking, relationship management, or structured finance.
- Strong knowledge of African trade markets, industry regulations, and trade finance instruments (e.g., Letters of Credit, IRUs, Trade Guarantees).
- Experience onboarding clients, conducting KYC assessments, and handling financial due diligence.
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Technical Skills & Knowledge:
- Expertise in trade finance, risk management, credit analysis, and financial modeling.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and financial reporting tools.
- Familiarity with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce) and SAP financial systems.
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Soft Skills:
- Fluency in English and French is required (Arabic is an added advantage).
- Strong relationship management, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously and meet deadlines.
- High attention to detail, professionalism, and strategic thinking.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CVs to Afreximbank@robertwalters.com with the job title “Manager, Client Relations (FWAF Regional Office)” clearly stated in the email subject line for proper consideration.