(SVP) Credit Initiation Unit Head - CHENNAI

We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Unit Head to lead our Credit Operations team in Chennai/Pune.  The Unit Head will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of credit operations, ensuring efficient and effective processing of credit applications, adherence to regulatory requirements, and the delivery of exceptional service to our internal and external stakeholders.  This is a critical leadership role that requires a strong understanding of credit risk management, operational excellence, and people management.

Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Management:
  • Provide strong leadership and direction to the Credit Operations team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Manage a team of approximately 100 operations professionals, including team leads, credit analysts, and support staff.
  • Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance reviews.
  • Identify training and development needs and implement programs to enhance team capabilities.
  • Ensure adequate staffing levels and resource allocation to meet operational demands.
• Credit Operations Oversight:
  • Oversee all aspects of credit operations, including credit application processing, loan disbursement, account maintenance and collateral management.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including those related to anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC).
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures to enhance operational efficiency and minimize operational risk.
  • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement.
  • Manage relationships with internal stakeholders, including Singapore-based operations, credit risk management, relationship managers, sales, and compliance.
• Risk Management:
  • Ensure that credit operations processes are aligned with the company's overall risk management framework.
  • Identify and mitigate operational and credit risks associated with lending activities.
  • Implement controls to prevent fraud and errors.
  • Monitor and report on credit quality trends.
• Process Improvement:
  • Continuously identify opportunities to improve credit operations processes and enhance efficiency.
  • Lead process improvement initiatives, leveraging technology and automation where appropriate.
  • Implement best practices in credit operations management.
• Stakeholder Management:
  • Serve as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding credit operations matters.
  • Maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies, auditors, and other external parties.
  • Represent Credit Operations in cross-functional projects and initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in a related role, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Knowledge:
  • Deep understanding of credit risk management principles and practices.
  • Thorough knowledge of banking regulations and compliance requirements in Singapore.
  • Familiarity with credit operations technology and automation tools.
• Skills:
  • Strong leadership and people management skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
  • Proven track record of driving process improvement and achieving operational excellence.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications (e.g., credit risk management, compliance) are a plus.
• Language: Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of other Southeast Asian languages is an advantage.