Head of Credit Policy

Aventus Global Talent; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent bank in Saudi Arabia seeks a highly experienced Head of Credit Policy to shape and manage the credit policy framework. Responsibilities include overseeing the retail credit policy, aligning strategies with business goals, and managing regulatory compliance. Ideal candidates will have 7-10 years of experience in credit policy, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of credit risk management. This role will foster a high-performance culture within the team while optimizing risk-return profiles.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7-10 years in retail credit policy or credit risk strategy.
• Strong knowledge of credit risk management and regulatory frameworks.
• Proven track record in developing and managing credit policies.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the retail credit policy and ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Drive achievement of NPL and NCL targets through effective oversight.
• Review and update credit policy manuals regularly to reflect changes.
• Approve lending programs while ensuring compliance with credit risk standards.
• Manage relationships for integrated lending and risk strategies.
• Oversee regulatory compliance related to credit policies.

Skills

Credit risk management

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Banking, or Economics

Job description

Title

Head of Credit Policy

Location

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

About the Client

Our client, a prominent bank in Saudi Arabia, is seeking a highly experienced Head of Credit Policy to lead the retail credit policy function. The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping and managing the credit policy framework, aligning lending strategies with business goals, and ensuring robust risk management practices across retail portfolios.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and maintain the retail credit policy, ensuring alignment with the bank’s strategic objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Drive the achievement of NPL (Non-Performing Loan) and NCL (Non-Performing Credit) targets through effective credit policy oversight.
• Review and update credit policy manuals regularly to reflect market, regulatory, and business changes.
• Approve lending programs promptly while ensuring compliance with credit risk standards.
• Analyse exposure limits and provide recommendations to optimize risk-return profiles.
• Manage relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders to integrate lending and risk strategies.
• Oversee regulatory compliance related to credit policies and adjust strategies in response to evolving regulations.
• Lead risk assessment and mitigation for retail lending portfolios.
• Foster a high-performance culture within the credit policy team through regular feedback and development initiatives.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Banking, Economics, or related fields, advanced qualifications preferred.
• Extensive experience (minimum 7-10 years) in retail credit policy, risk management, or credit risk strategy within a banking environment.
• Strong knowledge of credit risk management, NPL/NCL drivers, and regulatory frameworks affecting retail lending.
• Proven track record in developing, implementing, and managing credit policies aligned with business strategies.
• Excellent analytical, stakeholder management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with experience managing and motivating teams to achieve results.