VP, Trade & Loans Operations

We are currently partnering with a full-service bank who have a strong and growing presence in the Asia region.

They are looking to hire a VP – Trade & Loans Operations candidate to oversee a team of staff and provide support to the Head of the department.

This role will be responsible for the following:

• Support the Head of Trade & Loans Operations in managing Trade & Loan Services Department per branch guidelines to meet objectives.
• Oversee operations in Trade Finance, Remittances, Loans, and Correspondent Banking.
• Collaborate with the Head of Trade & Loans Operations on strategic direction, focusing on compliance, risk, and operations.
• Assist in implementing and reviewing departmental policies and guidelines.
• Optimize work procedures to enhance efficiency and customer service.
• Drive productivity improvements through automation and streamlined workflows.
• Research and recommend new trade & loan products; coordinate with business units for delivery.
• Ensure compliance with all regulations, guidelines, and the Bank’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework.
• Implement cost-saving measures to reduce departmental and branch expenses.
• Support periodic reviews of organizational structure and staff duties.
• Identify, develop, and groom talent for managerial roles and succession planning.
• Foster high-performing teams through motivation, development, and performance reviews.
• Arrange cross-training to boost staff skills, morale, and motivation.
• Stay updated on trade finance/loan industry trends, fintech advancements, and regulatory changes.
• Maintain strong relationships with agent banks for clearing and forfaiting services.
• Oversee Business Continuity Planning, including Business Recovery Officer responsibilities.

To be eligible for this role you will require:

• In-depth knowledge of trade finance, and in loan operations
• 10+ years of middle/back-office operations experience, ideally with experience in Commodity Trade Financing (energy, and hard and soft commodities)
• Strong understanding of International Trade rules (UCP, ISBP, URC, URR), Incoterms 2020, and MAS Regulations/Notices.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Strong Trade & Loan product knowledge with risk mitigation and problem-solving capabilities.
• Skilled in managing cross-departmental issues; works well under pressure both independently and in teams.