Team Member_WBG OPERATIONS OPS _0129_1288_1061119_HRR

Kotak Mahindra Bank; Mumbai; On-site; INR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Kotak Mahindra Bank is seeking an experienced Trade Finance Operations Leader in Mumbai. You will manage end-to-end processing, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive process improvements to support business growth.

Leading a team of Trade Finance professionals, you will optimize operations, monitor SLAs, and coordinate with multiple stakeholders to ensure accurate, timely transaction processing and risk control.

Qualifications

• Graduate or postgraduate degree in Commerce, Finance or related field.
• 6–10 years of experience in Trade Finance Operations within Banks/NBFCs.
• Strong understanding of Import/Export Trade products and international trade regulations.
• Knowledge of SWIFT messaging and Trade Finance systems.
• Experience in team handling and stakeholder management.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end Trade Finance processing and verification (LCs, BGs, import/export bills, documentary collections, trade loans).
• Ensure adherence to RBI, FEMA, UCP 600, URDG, ISBP and internal guidelines.
• Monitor SLAs and maintain high accuracy in processing.
• Handle exceptions, discrepancies, customer queries, and escalations.
• Coordinate with Business, Compliance, Credit, RM, and correspondent banks.
• Review controls and implement process improvements for efficiency.
• Manage audit requirements and close audit observations on time.
• Track productivity, service quality, and operational risk metrics.
• Lead and mentor a team of Trade Finance professionals; provide training.
• Support automation and digitization initiatives within Trade Operations.

Skills

Trade Finance

SWIFT messaging

Team leadership

Stakeholder management

Regulatory compliance

Process optimization

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Graduate/PG in Commerce or Finance

Tools

SWIFT systems

Trade Finance software

Job description

Job Description

Role Purpose

The incumbent will be responsible for managing end-to-end Trade Finance Operations, ensuring timely processing of trade transactions, regulatory compliance, operational risk management, and stakeholder management. The role requires expertise in trade products, process controls, and team supervision to support business growth and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage processing and verification of Trade Finance transactions including:
  • Letters of Credit (LCs)
  • Bank Guarantees (BGs)
  • Import & Export Bills
  • Documentary Collections
  • Trade Loans and Reimbursements
• Ensure adherence to RBI, FEMA, UCP 600, URDG, ISBP, and internal compliance guidelines.
• Monitor transaction processing SLAs and ensure high accuracy levels.
• Handle exceptions, discrepancy management, customer queries, and escalations.
• Coordinate with Business, Compliance, Credit, Relationship Managers, and Correspondent Banks.
• Review operational controls and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency.
• Manage audit requirements and ensure closure of audit observations within timelines.
• Track productivity, service quality, and operational risk metrics.
• Lead and mentor a team of Trade Finance professionals, providing training and performance management support.
• Support automation and digitization initiatives within Trade Operations.

Candidate Requirements

• Graduate/Postgraduate in Commerce, Finance, Banking, or related field.
• 6–10 years of experience in Trade Finance Operations within Banks/NBFCs.
• Strong understanding of Import/Export Trade products and International Trade regulations.
• Knowledge of SWIFT messaging and Trade Finance systems.
• Experience in team handling and stakeholder management.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Skills

• Working knowledge of ICC guidelines (UCP 600, URDG, ISP98).
• Exposure to transaction monitoring and operational risk controls.
• Ability to drive process improvements and automation initiatives.