Credit Risk Manager, Financial Institutions, Corporate and Investment Banking

A significant opportunity has arisen within Liberty's Corporate and Investment Banking division for a skilled Credit Risk Manager. This position, based in Johannesburg, is fundamental to the success of the Financial Institutions unit, which oversees a broad spectrum of financial entities. The role demands a seasoned professional capable of navigating the complexities of credit risk within banks, non-bank financial institutions, development finance institutions, insurers, asset managers, and emerging fintech companies.

About the Role

The core of this position involves the thorough assessment and ongoing management of credit risk exposures. You will play a pivotal role in the entire lifecycle of credit, from initial origination and structuring of deals to robust monitoring, all while ensuring strict adherence to South Africa's regulatory landscape and the organisation's internal risk appetite frameworks. This is a strategic function, contributing directly to the soundness and growth of the bank's exposure to the financial sector.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Evaluating the creditworthiness of financial institutions across various sub-sectors.
• Developing and implementing risk management strategies tailored to specific client segments.
• Monitoring the performance of the existing credit portfolio and identifying potential areas of concern.
• Ensuring all credit-related activities comply with relevant legislation and internal policies.
• Collaborating with front-office teams to structure deals that balance risk and reward effectively.
• Contributing to the development and refinement of credit risk models and methodologies.

This role requires a proactive and analytical individual who can not only identify risks but also propose effective mitigation strategies. You will be expected to engage deeply with the business models of both banking and non-banking financial institutions, understanding their unique challenges and opportunities. A strong grasp of regulatory capital frameworks and sovereign risk assessment is crucial, as is familiarity with a range of financial products common in corporate and investment banking, such as revolving credit facilities, securitisations, trade finance instruments, and guarantees.

The position also necessitates a high degree of proficiency in financial modelling and credit rating methodologies. You will be responsible for translating complex financial data into actionable insights, informing critical credit decisions. Furthermore, the ability to clearly and confidently articulate your findings and recommendations to senior management and other stakeholders is a non-negotiable aspect of this role. This involves presenting complex risk assessments in a concise and persuasive manner, facilitating informed decision-making at the highest levels.

What They're Looking For

To excel in this role, candidates will need a solid foundation in credit risk assessment, ideally with at least eight years of experience specifically within the financial institutions space. A tertiary qualification in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a closely related field is a prerequisite. The possession of a CA(SA) or CFA designation would be a significant advantage, demonstrating a high level of professional accreditation and expertise.

Beyond technical prowess, the ideal candidate will possess strong behavioural competencies. These include the ability to meticulously check information, convey confidence in their assessments, effectively direct people when necessary, and establish rapport with colleagues and clients. Skills in examining information, exploring possibilities, interacting productively with others, and making sound decisions are also vital. The capacity to manage tasks efficiently, meet deadlines, work collaboratively as part of a team, and uphold high professional standards are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

In South Africa, a Credit Risk Manager with this level of experience and specialisation is typically highly sought after by major banking groups and financial services firms. While specific remuneration varies greatly, roles of this nature often command competitive salaries reflective of the critical nature of risk management in the financial sector, with potential for significant bonuses and long-term incentives. Career progression could lead to more senior risk management positions or head of specific risk functions within a large financial institution.

Type of Qualification: First Degree

Field of Study: Finance, Accounting, Economics or related field 

Licenses & Certifications: CA (SA) or CFA would be advantageous

Experience Required
 

Minimum of 8 years experience in credit risk assessment, preferably within Financial Institutions. Strong understanding of Banking and Non-Bank Financial Institutions business models, regulatory capital frameworks, and sovereign risk. Familiarity with products such as RCFs, securitisations, trade finance, and guarantees.

Proficiency in financial modelling and credit rating methodologies.

Experience and the ability to present to senior stakeholders.