Credit Officer

Role Description

SMBC is seeking an Associate with commensurate experience / skills in credit risk analysis for US subsidiaries of Japanese parent companies.

• Review & challenge of credit applications submitted by the front office(s) and prepare executive summaries / written recommendations to the management of the Credit Department. It is also expected to work with front office to improve quality of credit applications to expedite the approval process.
• The coverage includes lending transactions related Japanese Corporates and their related financial products (derivative, hedging etc.).
• The scope of the analysis and the review includes, but not limited to, obligor credit risk, projections, transaction background, deal structure, facility terms and conditions, US regulatory classification, profitability, and relationship strategy. 

Role Objectives

• Conducts required analysis of various credit risk elements for new and existing transactions for corporate credits in coordination with front office and senior management based on the solid knowledges around financial analysis and US regulatory requirements.
• Prepare written executive summaries/comments of credit applications submitted from the front office and present to the management of the Credit Department.
• Controls deal and credit approval process, ensures appropriate communication with all relevant parties, with adherence to credit policies and approval authorities. 
• Analyze client's financial performance, and continuously monitor risk events and quality of portfolio and promptly reports on key events (i.e. downgrades, event of default, etc.) to management.
• Participates in the periodic meetings to review specific borrowers and sectors to support front offices to set appropriate action plans for deteriorating credits.
• Engage with front office to assist with due diligence and structuring, identify key credit risks and main credit concerns and challenge assumptions prior to formal credit submission.
• Other credit related tasks/projects as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum 3+ years of relevant work experience preferably within a credit risk function (formal credit training preferred).
• Solid knowledge of market practices in corporate finance. Undergraduate degree in Finance, Business Administration or related fields. MBA/CFA or other professional qualification preferred.
• Experience to handle individual accounts / deals is highly regarded.
• Capability to take a standard corporate transaction from inception to approval, with some guidance and supervision where appropriate. 
• Ability to manage significant deal volume in a fast-paced environment and analyze credit application and prepare written summary in a short timeframe and in a multitasking environment.
• Good working knowledge of credit and risk principles including corporate finance, securitization, ABL, supply chain finance, ARP, lease finance, and accounting. 
• High level of IT literacy, strong written and verbal communication skills (supporting preparation of succinct and focused credit papers), and strong interpersonal skills (supporting collaboration / teamwork).
• Willingness to learn the Bank's structure, policies and procedures and new culture / mindset. 
• Strong analytical skills; detail oriented. 
• Good organizational skills; ability to prioritize work and manage time effectively. 
• Business fluency in Japanese is preferred, but not a requirement.