My client is an established Debt Fund who provides real estate finance finance (development,, investment and bridging). They are branching out into Europe and seeking an experienced candidate based in Germany.
Overview
The Credit Manager will be responsible for overseeing credit assessment, underwriting, and portfolio risk management for the company's commercial real estate (CRE) lending activities across the UK and selected European jurisdictions. This role ensures that all lending decisions are robust, compliant with regulatory requirements, and aligned with the company's strategic objectives. The Credit Manager will partner with origination, legal, and senior management teams to support business growth while maintaining prudent credit standards.
Responsibilities
Credit Analysis & Underwriting
- Lead the evaluation of complex CRE lending opportunities, including development finance, investment loans, and bridging facilities.
- Analyse borrower financials, guarantor strength, and project-level feasibility.
- Review market data, property valuations (RICS standards), and exit strategies to ensure loan security.
- Structure loan terms in line with internal policies, market conditions, and regulatory frameworks.
- Prepare and present detailed credit papers with recommendations for credit committee approval.
Risk Management
- Develop and implement credit risk policies in line with UK PRA / FCA guidelines and European banking standards.
- Conduct ongoing monitoring of loan performance and market exposures.
- Perform stress-testing on loan portfolios against interest rate movements, sector volatility, and macroeconomic shifts.
- Identify early warning signals in the portfolio and recommend mitigation measures.
- Maintain oversight of compliance with AML, KYC, and GDPR requirements.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Supervise and mentor a team of analysts and underwriters, ensuring consistency and quality in credit work.
- Collaborate with origination teams to balance commercial objectives with sound risk management.
- Act as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including valuers, solicitors, and auditors.
Candidate Requirements
- 3–5 years’ experience in credit risk, lending, or underwriting with experience of property lending (CRE or Development Finance).
- Strong understanding of secured loan structures, real estate assets, and legal documentation.
- Excellent analytical and credit writing skills with the ability to present clear, concise recommendations.
- Confident working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Proven ability to challenge assumptions and take ownership of decisions.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach to cross-functional work.
- Degree-educated or equivalent; relevant professional qualifications a plus.
- A flexible and dynamic individual who thrives in a growing business and is comfortable with change.
- Someone commercially aware with sound judgement and a pragmatic approach to risk.
- A self-starter who combines attention to detail with the ability to see the bigger picture.
This role is based in Germany.
Salary
Depending on experience