Executive Leader, Real Estate Credit Risk

OakNorth; Greater London; On-site; GBP 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity stake

25 days' holiday

Private medical insurance

Enhanced parental leave

Wellbeing events

Barista Bar in London

Volunteering time off

Cycle to work

Job summary

OakNorth is seeking a Senior Director, Credit Risk – Real Estate to shape credit decisions across its UK real estate lending portfolio. You will lead independent assessments, challenge opportunities and present high-quality recommendations to Credit Committee.

You’ll collaborate with Debt Finance Origination, Credit Analytics and Portfolio Management, balancing disciplined risk with backing ambitious businesses.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in credit risk with SME real estate expertise.
• Deep knowledge across residential, office, retail and industrial real estate.
• Experience with operational real estate such as PBSA, BTR or co‑living.
• Excellent financial analysis and the ability to assess complex transactions.
• Independent credit judgement with ability to influence senior decisions.
• Confidence leading Credit Committee discussions and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills for diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent assessment of new UK real estate lending opportunities.
• Collaborate with Debt Finance Origination and Credit Analytics from the outset.
• Present clear, well‑reasoned recommendations to Credit Committee.
• Assess investments, development and operational real estate portfolios.
• Scrutinise cashflow models, valuations and related reports.
• Engage with borrowers during discussions on appetite and structure.
• Support portfolio management on exposures, extensions and restructurings.
• Review term sheets and documentation with Legal and Execution teams.
• Provide independent judgement on approvals and policy adherence.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives improving real estate credit.

Skills

Credit risk

Real estate lending

Cashflow analysis

Credit committee leadership

Stakeholder management

Negotiation skills

Strategic thinking

Job description

OakNorth is seeking a Senior Director, Credit Risk – Real Estate to shape credit decisions across its UK real estate lending portfolio. You will lead independent assessments, challenge opportunities and present high-quality recommendations to Credit Committee.

You’ll collaborate with Debt Finance Origination, Credit Analytics and Portfolio Management, balancing disciplined risk with backing ambitious businesses.