Job Summary
The Manager, Trade Finance & Correspondent Banking (AFTRAF) will be responsible for origination, structuring, execution, and monitoring of trade finance transactions under the Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme (AFTRAF). The role involves business development, transaction structuring, credit assessment, and client relationship management, ensuring Afreximbank remains the Correspondent Bank of choice for partner financial institutions in member states.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in trade finance, correspondent banking, risk participation, and structured trade finance, with experience in syndications, co-financing, and international trade instruments.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Client Engagement
- Work with trade finance, trade services, and client coverage teams to acquire new trade clients by aligning Afreximbank’s credit appetite with acceptable risk levels.
- Manage utilization of the existing trade finance portfolio and drive business growth under AFTRAF.
- Acquire new clients, maximize utilization of approved limits, and push trade utilization to meet revenue and trade asset targets.
- Develop structured marketing initiatives, including roadshows and trade programs to expand Afreximbank’s correspondent banking business.
- Establish and maintain relationships with African financial institutions, commodity boards, corporates, and international banks.
- Ensure maximum utilization of idle AFTRAF limits by coordinating with banks, trade finance intermediaries, and corporate clients.
Transaction Structuring & Execution
- Design effective trade finance transaction structures that optimize returns while minimizing risks.
- Lead the structuring, development, and negotiation of term sheets and transaction execution.
- Supervise the origination, credit approval, and contracting process, ensuring efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with the Bank’s risk acceptance criteria, addressing any concerns raised by credit committee members before submission.
- Work with the Legal and Credit departments to finalize transaction documentation and execution.
Monitoring & Risk Mitigation
- Monitor trade finance portfolio performance, tracking transaction utilization, credit limits, and repayment schedules.
- Stay informed on market trends, FI sector developments, and regulatory changes impacting the Bank’s strategic direction.
- Identify early warning signals and take proactive measures to mitigate risks.
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 Policies
- Anti-Bribery & Corruption (ABC) Guidelines
- Insider Trading & Market Conduct Rules
- Report any suspicious or non-compliant activities to the Compliance Department.
- Complete the Annual Compliance Training & Assessment.
- Ensure transactions are compliant with country-specific trade finance regulations.
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 8 years of experience in trade finance, correspondent banking, or structured finance.
- Strong knowledge of syndications, co-financing, correspondent banking, risk participation, and structured trade finance instruments (e.g., letters of credit, factoring, forfaiting, and corporate finance risk participations).
- Experience engaging with senior officials of banks, corporates, and government entities.
- Proven ability to develop and market trade finance products and manage trade finance portfolios.
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Technical Skills & Knowledge:
- Expertise in trade finance structuring, credit risk assessment, and financial modeling.
- Proficiency in financial modeling, transaction structuring, and trade finance documentation.
- Strong understanding of African trade finance, banking regulations, and correspondent banking operations.
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Soft Skills:
- Fluency in French is required (English, Arabic, or Portuguese is an added advantage).
- Strong relationship management, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and handle multiple transactions simultaneously.
- 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 “Manager, Trade Finance & Correspondent Banking (AFTRAF)” clearly stated in the email subject line for proper consideration.