Client Management - Associate

Role Description

The Associate within the Client Management team plays a key role in executing Know Your Customer (KYC) processes in alignment with the Bank’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies. They will be responsible for managing key aspects of the client lifecycle, including client onboarding, periodic KYC reviews, account openings and updates, and enhanced due diligence. This role ensures compliance with regulatory requirements while supporting seamless client experiences and operational efficiency. The role further involves leading specialized projects, supporting cross-functional initiatives, and coordinating client outreach efforts across multiple business units. A particular focus is placed on clients involved in Collateralized Loan Obligation (CLO) structures, requiring subject matter expertise. 

Responsibilities

• Responsible for managing key aspects of the client lifecycle, including client onboarding, periodic KYC reviews, account openings and updates, and enhanced due diligence. 
• Collaborate closely with team members, Compliance Operations, and other internal SMBC stakeholders to ensure effective KYC management and alignment with regulatory standards. This coordination is essential to support the successful execution of client transactions and maintain the integrity of the Bank’s due diligence processes.
• Serve as a key liaison between internal business units by facilitating day-to-day interactions, responding to processing requests and instructions, managing stakeholder expectations, and resolving complex inquiries and issues. Partner with Operations and other support functions to streamline workflows and actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and client service delivery.
• Demonstrate strong expertise in conducting Know Your Customer (KYC) processes for institutional clients, including a thorough understanding of documentation requirements across various account types. Serve as a subject matter expert on KYC policies, procedures, and implementation, ensuring compliance with internal standards and regulatory expectations.
• Ensure effective operational risk management by maintaining strict adherence to compliance policies and regulatory requirements. Support ongoing portfolio maintenance activities as needed, contributing to the integrity and efficiency of client lifecycle management and transaction readiness.

Qualifications and Skills

• A minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience in a corporate bank or relevant financial institution.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or equivalent work experience. Formal credit training a plus.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel; Access proficiency a plus.
• Strong leadership skills to spearhead various projects within required timeframe, by identifying necessary steps and potential challenges throughout the process.
• Able to quickly learn and adapt to internal policies, processes, grading and other systems.  Able to work well in a culturally diverse and team oriented environment. Demonstrates intellectual curiosity and an interest in continuous learning.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an ability to present effectively.
• Have the ability to operate independently and in teams and maintain a high level of trust and confidence by senior line and risk management.
• Demonstrates a high degree of attention to detail and an ability to complete work accurately and in a timely manner against strict deadlines. 
• Self-driven and motivated; takes personal ownership of specific assignments. Able to raise concerns and/or consult with senior members as appropriate.
• Encourages and inspires self and others to continuously seek opportunities for new, novel and innovative ways to solve organizational problems, create value and realize opportunities.
• Creates and nurtures an open, energizing and high performance culture.

Additional Requirements