Head of Credit

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the bank’s credit strategy, including risk-based pricing, loan profiling models, and underwriting policies aligned with the risk appetite framework.
• Oversee the end-to-end credit origination and underwriting process, ensuring efficient, compliant, and data-driven credit decisions.
• Manage and monitor the credit portfolio, utilizing performance metrics and analytics to maintain asset quality and drive proactive risk mitigation.
• Lead collections and recovery strategies to optimize recoveries while ensuring compliance and maintaining positive customer experience.
• Ensure accurate credit reporting, loan classification, and provisioning in line with regulatory requirements and internal governance standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance credit decision systems, support product innovation, and leverage data-driven insights.
• Ensure full compliance with regulatory guidelines and support audit processes through effective documentation and remediation of findings.
• Lead and develop a high-performing credit team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and responsible lending practices.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree (MBA or MSc in Finance) is strongly preferred.
• Relevant certifications such as CIBN, CFA, FRM, or ACA are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in credit management, loan origination, or portfolio management within the banking or financial services industry, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in developing credit scoring models, managing digital loan portfolios, and handling collections/recoveries.
• Demonstrated success in maintaining asset quality within regulatory thresholds while achieving growth targets.
• Deep understanding of credit risk frameworks, loan profiling techniques, and portfolio management principles.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with experience using data analytics tools (for credit analysis.
• Knowledge of CBN microfinance/digital banking regulations, IFRS 9 provisioning, and prudential guidelines.
• Ability to balance risk and reward, making sound credit decisions in a fast‑paced digital environment.