Relationship Director (Origination) - SME Lending

Michael Page (UK); England; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Investment Management firm is looking for a Lending Manager to originate and lead new transactions in the UK SME lending market. This full-time role offers autonomy in decision-making while collaborating with internal teams to maintain high underwriting standards and mentor junior members. Candidates should possess a strong network, proven experience in lending, and a degree-level education in finance or related fields.

Benefits

Collaborative Environment

Market Visibility

Autonomy and Impact

Purpose-Driven Culture

Qualifications

• Proven track record in UK SME cashflow lending and leveraged finance.
• Strong network of brokers, advisors, and acquirers.
• Experience with loan documentation and LMA standards.

Responsibilities

• Originate and lead new lending transactions.
• Build and maintain a strong presence in the SME debt market.
• Conduct financial analysis and risk assessments.

Skills

Networking

Interpersonal communication

Financial modelling

Project management

Education

Degree-level education in accountancy, banking, or risk

Job description

• An opportunity to support business growth with tailored solutions
• Full time and permanent position

About Our Client

Successful Investment Management firm who are committed to responsible investing and long-term value creation.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

• Originate and lead new lending transactions, meeting individual and team targets.
• Build and maintain a strong presence in the SME debt market through networking and events.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure high standards in credit underwriting and legal documentation.
• Mentor and support junior team members in deal origination and structuring.
• Conduct financial analysis, risk assessments, and market research.
• Work with credit and portfolio management teams to ensure deal quality and monitor performance.

The Successful Applicant

Required Experience & Skills:

• Proven track record in UK SME cashflow lending and leveraged finance (deal sizes £1m-£20m).
• Strong network of brokers, advisors, and acquirers.
• Experience with loan documentation and LMA standards.
• Proficiency in financial modelling and Excel.
• Degree-level education, ideally with a professional qualification in accountancy, banking, or risk.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Self-motivated with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and project management abilities.
• Results-driven with a collaborative mindset and strategic vision.

What's on Offer

• Collaborative Environment - The company values teamwork and cross-functional collaboration, particularly between origination, credit, and portfolio management team.

• Market Visibility - The position involves representing the firm in the SME lending market, offering strong networking and industry engagement opportunities.

• Autonomy and Impact - The role offers a high degree of independence and the chance to directly influence deal flow and portfolio performance.

• Purpose-Driven Culture - The firm is committed to making a positive impact, with a strong focus on responsible investment and sustainability.

While most of the team are London based, the team are open to someone who is based in the regions who can visit the London office as and when needed.