Head of Business Unit: SME Lending

SUMMARY:
An opportunity has become available for a Head of Business Unit: SME Lending

POSITION INFO:

The HBU will actively participate in defining strategic objectives of the business; business planning, financial planning and setting the direction of the business in line with the strategy required by the Organisation.

Responsible to lead and build the team to its full potential.

Managing and overseeing 3 large credit product portfolios.

Duties and Responsibilities but not limited:

Strategic and analytical development of products per the market segment.

Actively participate in driving and achieving sales of the credit products in each segment.

Preparation of financial spreadsheets and models to support new and existing credit products.

Drive the continual need for greater efficiency to ensure capacity to manage volume of workflow.

Responsible for the data integrity of the division’s information that is used to manage and monitor credit risk.

Accountable for ensuring the right people, processes, policies and systems are in place to achieve cost-effective and efficient management within the division that is aligned to the strategic objectives of the business operating model.

Full Profit and Lost (P&L) responsibility of the Division.

Manage risk and control effectively by applying applicable risk frameworks and embedding a positive risk culture.

Responsible for delivering consistent and timely credit risk decisions.

Promote a culture of continuous improvement and driving necessary changes within the division.

Lead and drive the performance of direct reports and create an environment where all individuals are developed to the best of their ability ensuring talent and under-performance is proactively managed.

Drive communication and formal feedback process between the team and the business to build trust, partnership and appreciation of the credit function and product amongst stakeholders.

Initiate and proactively embed agreed change initiatives in support of the strategic objectives, driving process and quality improvement, cost reduction and development of the product.

Deliver organisational costings within the agreed budgets and timeframes.

Endeavouring to provide a world-class standard of quality of output.

Develop and maintain strong network of internal contacts at a senior level.

Apply creative thinking to develop and market the products.

Work closely with internal stakeholders such as Marketing, Sales and Development teams to drive and coordinate product initiatives.

Skills and Competencies

Strong problem-solving skills.

Financial Acumen

Entrepreneurial spirit/drive

Strong analytical skills

Embracing Change

Articulating Information

Ability to engage with senior stakeholders

Attention to detail especially when analysing data

Excellent organizational and communication skills

Evaluating Risk Management Effectiveness

Excellent communication skills

Ability to think strategically and make sound decisions.

Proficiency with financial reports and statements.

Adopting Practical Approaches

Qualifications and Experience:

Matric essential

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or other business-related fields.

4+ years of proven experience in similar senior role is advantageous.

Industry experience is highly advantageous (banking / retail / merchant).

Proven experience of managing a business and or a division within an Organisation.

System development experience is advantageous.

Proven marketing, sales and operational experience