Relationship Manager - SME Lending

Job Description

Relationship Manager - SME LendingWe have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Business Development or Relationship Manager from a Business or Commercial Banking or SME lending background for a new Debt Fund that is being created to cover the counties of Devon, Cornwall, Dorset andSomerset. This role would cover both Dorset and Somerset and it is important that you are within easy travelling distance and ideally have professional networks in those counties.The new Fund is designed to finance growth. The business lending is "marketgap" which would not be provided by a Bank or other non-Bank lenders (i.e., fits outside of their risk appetite / policies) - looking at business plans and spend required to helpthe business grow (e.g., they are expanding organically and / or won a new contract). It is genuine unsecured cashflow lending for growth. The aim is to also increase the probability of success of those businesses, with "more than money" support with the focuson strong relationship management.You will be responsible for origination, appraisal, and execution of loans to growing and innovative SME’s, up to £2m.About the business:The business has been providing high-growth businesses with accessible market-gap funding since 2002. They work with stakeholders and partners, including British Business Bank, Funding London and Local Enterprise Partnerships, to deliver regional fundingthat supports job creation and economic prosperity. They promote diversity and support underrepresented geographies.You will be expected to:

• Be a self-driven, active member of the investment team with a genuine passion for working with SMEs to achieve their growth ambitions
• With the support of a BDM, build a pipeline of suitable lending opportunities, develop relationships with introducers, and market the product to appropriate audiences
• Carry out evaluation and due diligence on suitable proposals in line with the Fund’s lending policy and operational guidelines
• Present proposals to an independent credit committee for approval
• With central support, manage completion matters post approval including completion of facility documentation
• With central support, work alongside company solicitors to ensure all security requirements are met
• Pro-actively manage client portfolio, work with those businesses to achieve growth, monitoring performance and identifying early potential default situations
• Contribute to stakeholder reporting

The ideal candidate will have:

• Prior experience in lending to (UK) SMEs and client relationship management with a strong ability to assess and structure loan propositions on a projection led basis
• A professional network in the area defined (advantageous)
• Ability to multi-task and prioritise deadlines to meet customer expectations
• Good presentation skills and ability to communicate and interact at all levels of management
• A high level of IT proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office 365 products
• A diligent working style and experience using CRM systems to manage & track proposal activities
• The role is primarily home based however you should have your own transport and the ability to travel to Dorset and Somerset and to team meet ups in the Exeter area. Access to a good quality / speed home internet is a must.

What’s on offer:

• The chance to work for a business that truly helps UK SMEs thrive
• A competitive base salary commensurate with your experience, up to £70k PA
• 25 days annual leave plus usual Bank holidays in England & Wales. You will also get your birthday off.
• Ability for you to use 1 day for Corporate Social Responsibility purposes annually
• 5% employer contribution to pension scheme, subject to minimum 3% contribution from employee
• Death in Service benefit equivalent to 4 x salary
• 50% funded private medical scheme, income protection and health cash plan scheme
• Discretionary annual bonus
• Job Type: Full-time, however would consider 4 days a week on pro rata salary

Keyskills :
Business Development Credit Risk Relationship Management Commercial Banking cashflow lending