Corporate Banking Operations Director

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

Purpose of the Role

To lead and manage the Execution Control team within Execution, Distribution and Limit Control (EDLC), providing independent oversight of the execution of new transactions across EMEA. The role is responsible for ensuring lending, trade finance and derivative limits are accurately reflected within Loan IQ, GBR, FOX, OBS and associated operational systems, while maintaining a robust risk and control framework.

The role acts as a senior escalation point for operational issues, drives process improvements and strategic initiatives, supports the delivery of system enhancements and develops a high-performing team of subject matter experts.

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Key Responsibilities

Lead, develop and manage the Execution Control team, ensuring delivery of departmental objectives, service standards and operational controls.

Manage team performance, recruitment, succession planning, training and cross-skilling to maintain a resilient and appropriately resourced function.

Oversee the accurate execution, implementation and maintenance of limits across EMEA, ensuring alignment between approved credit terms, legal documentation and operational systems.

Review and challenge operational processes and controls to identify risks, control weaknesses and opportunities for improvement.

Act as the senior escalation point for operational, regulatory and documentation issues impacting transactions.

Ensure compliance with internal policies, regulatory requirements, audit expectations and operational risk management standards.

Build and maintain effective working relationships with Front Office, Loan Capital Markets, Operations, Risk, Compliance, Legal and Technology teams.

Lead or support business change, system enhancements and strategic projects, including requirements gathering, process design and User Acceptance Testing (UAT).

Drive continuous improvement through process optimisation, automation opportunities and enhancement of the control environment.

Ensure comprehensive procedural documentation is maintained across all key operational activities.

The anticipated salary range for this role is £100,000 - £150,000, with the final offer determined based on the candidate’s skills, experience, role scope, location, and relevant market factors. In addition to base salary, the role may be eligible for a discretionary incentive award and a competitive benefits package, including core benefits such as pension provision

Position Description

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Strong experience within a financial services environment, preferably in loan operations, middle office or credit administration.

Strong understanding of syndicated loan operations and transaction lifecycle management.

Experience of Loan IQ and working knowledge of GBR, FOX, OBS or equivalent banking platforms.

Sound knowledge of LMA documentation, lending mechanics and credit approval processes.

Exposure to loan, trade finance and derivative documentation.

Strong understanding of operational risk, control frameworks and governance requirements.

Proven experience managing and developing teams within a professional services or banking environment.

Excellent stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on delivering practical, risk-based solutions.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver strategic projects alongside business-as-usual responsibilities.

Competencies

Customer Focus

Driving Change

Driving Results

Embraces Diversity

Enterprise Leadership

Judgement and Decision Making

Risk Management

Strategic and Visionary

Trust and Integrity

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working

• Competitive paid leave days

• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance and life and invalidity insurance

• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services

• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities

• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!!