About the Role
Our client, a reputable financial institution with a strong presence in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking an experienced Senior Credit Analyst to join their corporate banking division. This role is critical in assessing the creditworthiness of potential and existing corporate clients, managing loan portfolios, and ensuring sound credit risk management practices. The Senior Credit Analyst will analyze financial statements, conduct industry research, and prepare detailed credit reports and recommendations for loan approvals. This position operates on a Hybrid model, combining collaborative work within the Bloemfontein office with remote flexibility. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of financial analysis, risk assessment, and corporate finance within the banking & finance sector, along with excellent communication and decision-making skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze financial statements, cash flow projections, and other relevant data to assess the credit risk of corporate clients.
- Prepare comprehensive credit applications and recommendations for loan facilities, ensuring adherence to credit policies and guidelines.
- Monitor the performance of assigned loan portfolios, identifying and addressing potential credit deterioration.
- Conduct industry and market research to understand economic trends and their impact on borrowers.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients and internal stakeholders.
- Assess collateral and covenants associated with loan facilities.
- Ensure compliance with all internal credit policies and external regulatory requirements.
- Mentor and provide guidance to junior credit analysts.
- Participate in credit committee meetings and present credit analyses.
- Stay updated on best practices in credit analysis and risk management.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field; a Master's degree or relevant professional qualification is advantageous.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in credit analysis, corporate banking, or a similar role within the banking & finance industry.
- Strong knowledge of financial statement analysis, ratio analysis, and cash flow forecasting.
- Proficiency in financial modeling and sensitivity analysis.
- Understanding of various loan structures and collateral types.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial information clearly.
- Ability to work effectively in a Hybrid environment, balancing office-based and remote tasks.
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
- Familiarity with credit scoring models and risk rating systems is a plus.
Benefits
- Competitive salary package reflective of experience and expertise.
- Comprehensive medical aid and retirement annuity contributions.
- Generous annual leave and public holiday allowances.
- Opportunities for professional development, including credit-related training and certifications.
- A stable and supportive work environment within the Bloemfontein banking community.
- Exposure to a diverse portfolio of corporate clients.
- Hybrid work model offering a balance between office and remote work.
- Performance-based incentives and potential for career advancement.