About Ballina Credit Union
Formed in 1968, Ballina Credit Union has proudly grown to over €110 million in asset size. We serve over 17,000 members and operate from our office in Ballina, Co. Mayo.
Lending and Business Development Manager Role Summary
The role will be responsible for the operational function of the lending department while ensuring the growth and stability of the loan book and maintaining high standards in member service and delivery.
The successful candidate will have a strong focus on product development, efficiency optimization, and people management. The role will also focus on business development for the credit union, identifying and implementing growth opportunities.
The Lending and Business Development Manager will sit as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, ensuring the highest standards of corporate governance with legal, regulatory, and all associated credit policies.
Role Purpose
The Lending and Business Development Manager will primarily be responsible for the strong asset quality in the credit union's existing loan book and future lending.
They will oversee all aspects of the members' loan experience, including underwriting, and help identify opportunities for the credit union to diversify its lending options.
The manager will manage the day-to-day operation of the lending team, ensuring the highest standard of member satisfaction, while helping to grow Ballina Credit Unions market share through proactive business development.
Key Responsibilities/ Accountability:
* Oversee and lead the lending function, including management of the lending team, with strong underwriting experience required.
* Work with the Credit Committee, Board, CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and relevant stakeholders to develop the Credit Unions lending strategy and lending policies.
* Ensure the appropriate policies, systems, procedures, and practices are operating efficiently and effectively, with continuous improvement and development to the fore.
* Preparation, assessment, and approval of loans in accordance with regulation and within the remits of policies.
* Ensure compliance of the overall lending function within the parameters of the Lending policy, risk appetite, and regulations, making amendments where required.
* Review the loan portfolio regularly to identify emerging risks, trends, or opportunities for growth.
* Foster and develop relationships with relevant internal and external stakeholders.
* Champion team development and the progression and development of loan officers team members, providing relevant support and training.
* Handle and respond to member feedback, complete detailed analysis or investigation, and ensure the timely resolution of member queries.
* Develop a deep understanding of our members and their behaviours, whilst liaising with and supporting the marketing and business development department.
* Identify and promote new lending opportunities in a manner that is consistent with the credit unions strategic and risk management objectives.
* Ensure compliance with financial services legislation and liaise with required relevant regulatory stakeholders and bodies.
* Provide support to the Credit Committee and prepare monthly reports and attend meetings as required.
Business Development
To identify and develop new business growth leads and prospects, preparing business case documents for the Chief Executive Officer/Board of Directors.
Researching organisations and individuals to find new opportunities, followed by contacting potential members to establish rapport and arrange meetings.
Arrange meetings in person and onsite visits with local employers, professionals, businesses, and the SME community.
Attend and participate in public meetings, events, and forums, fostering the development and building of relationships.
Schedule and attend member meetings, calling commercial outlets, such as accountants, tax advisors, and advisor groups.
Develop and implement sales strategies that increase the credit union's existing volume of business and activity levels with increased levels of quality loan application submissions, approval, and draw down.
Criteria
A minimum QFA qualification or Professional Bankers designation
Bachelors degree in finance, Business, or a related field is desirable
Minimum 5 years experience in a results-driven, lending role
Minimum of 3 years of people management experience
Experience working in a Credit Union or a regulated Financial Services Provider is essential
Ability to assess, critically evaluate, and interpret complex information and to identify key credit risk drivers
Strong credit analysis and credit underwriting experience in personal and SME lending
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Financial and computer literacy
Ability to work on their own initiative to deliver agreed targets
Exceptional time management skills and ability to prioritise