Trade Finance Operation Manager

Job description

Job Summary

A Trade Finance Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing end-to-end trade finance operations (Import, Export, LC, Collections, Guarantees), ensuring accurate processing, regulatory compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency. The role involves managing teams, handling complex transactions, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to support international trade activities.

Key Responsibilities

A. Operations Management Oversee daily trade finance operations, including: Documentary Collections (inward/outward) Ensure timely and accurate processing of all trade transactions as per SLA standards. Monitor transaction queues, volumes, and turnaround times. B. Team Leadership & Supervision Lead and supervise a team of trade finance officers/analysts. Allocate work, monitor performance, and ensure quality output. Handle escalations, complex cases, and exception approvals.

Conduct training and support staff development. C.

Compliance & Risk Management Ensure adherence to:

• International rules (UCP 600, URC 522, ISP98).
• AML, KYC, sanctions screening requirements.
• Internal policies and regulatory guidelines Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks in trade transactions D.

Documentation & Quality Control Review trade documents for:

• Accuracy
• Completeness
• Adherence of the defined process as per SOP E. Stakeholder Management Act as a key point of contact for:
• Clients (importers/exporters)
• Relationship Managers
• Correspondent banks and financial institutions Resolve transaction issues, discrepancies, and customer queries efficiently.

Technical Skills

Strong knowledge of: Trade finance products (LCs, Guarantees, Collections) SWIFT messaging (MT700, MT400 series, Pacs 008, Pacs 009 etc.) Understanding of international trade regulations and banking practices

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in finance, Banking, Commerce, or related field 5–10 years of experience in trade finance operations Prior experience in team handling / supervisory role preferred Professional certifications (CDCS, CITF) – added advantage Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) SLA adherence and turnaround time Error rate / operational accuracy Compliance adherence (audit findings) Customer satisfaction Team productivity and efficiency

Qualifications

MASTER OF COMMERCE