Job Summary
The Assistant Manager, Syndication & Risk Distribution (Trade Distribution) will be responsible for supporting the development and growth of the trade distribution function, which focuses on the origination and distribution of short-term trade assets. The role involves managing relationships with banks, DFIs, funds, and institutional insurers, optimizing trade risk distribution, and enhancing Afreximbank’s trade finance business strategy.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in trade finance, structured finance, syndication, and risk distribution, with experience in correspondent banking products and trade risk mitigation instruments.
Key Responsibilities
Trade Asset Distribution & Business Development
- Support the Head of A-TREX and Director, Syndications & Risk Distribution in operationalizing and expanding the trade distribution function.
- Develop and manage relationships with external distribution partners, including:
- Commercial banks
- Development finance institutions (DFIs)
- Private and institutional insurers
- Trade funds
- Drive the buy- and sell-side distribution of short-term trade finance assets, ensuring a balanced trade risk portfolio.
- Coordinate with internal departments such as Trade Finance, Correspondent Banking, Trade Services, Client Coverage, Risk Management, and Compliance to acquire new trade distribution partners.
- Enhance the Bank’s capacity to provide short-term trade finance solutions and drive business growth in line with Afreximbank’s strategy.
Transaction Structuring & Risk Participation
- Manage the distribution and utilization of the existing trade finance portfolio, including:
- Letters of Credit Confirmation
- Avalized Drafts
- Trade Loans & Guarantees
- Irrevocable Reimbursement Undertakings (IRUs)
- Forfaiting & Factoring Transactions
- Assist in structuring transactions, developing and negotiating term sheets, and securing credit approvals.
- Liaise with the Credit and Legal Departments to support risk participation transactions and ensure compliance.
- Implement digital solutions for trade risk distribution with bank and insurance market partners.
Market Engagement & Trade Finance Innovation
- Conduct market research and benchmark pricing data to enhance trade risk distribution efficiency.
- Develop strategies for expanding Afreximbank’s presence in the trade finance market, including organizing roadshows and industry events.
- Support the preparation of annual business development plans for trade risk distribution.
- Share market insights with internal stakeholders to optimize trade distribution strategies.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure adherence to Afreximbank’s AML, Regulatory, and Conduct Compliance policies, including:
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Counter-Terrorism Financing
- Conflicts of Interest Policies
- Anti-Bribery & Corruption Guidelines
- Insider Trading & Market Conduct Rules
- Report any suspicious or non-compliant activities to the Compliance Department.
- Complete the Annual Compliance Training & Assessment.
- Ensure all trade distribution activities comply with internal risk and credit management frameworks.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
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Education:
- Master’s degree in Business Administration, Banking, Finance, or a related field from a recognized university.
- A professional qualification in Banking or International Trade Finance (ICC, BAFT, etc.) is an advantage.
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Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in trade finance, syndication, risk distribution, or correspondent banking.
- Strong knowledge of short-term trade finance products, including Letters of Credit, Trade Guarantees, Forfaiting, Factoring, and Risk Participation Agreements (RPA/MRPA).
- Experience working with global banks, development finance institutions, and trade finance intermediaries.
- Familiarity with trade finance digital platforms and automation of trade distribution.
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Technical Skills & Knowledge:
- Proficiency in trade asset distribution, risk mitigation, and structured finance solutions.
- Strong understanding of trade finance documentation, credit analysis, and legal requirements.
- Experience with financial modeling, trade risk assessment, and capital allocation strategies.
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Soft Skills:
- Fluency in English and French is required (Arabic or Portuguese is an added advantage).
- Strong relationship management, negotiation, and business development skills.
- Ability to handle complex transactions and meet tight deadlines.
- High attention to detail, professionalism, and strategic thinking.
- Willingness to travel extensively to engage with global trade finance stakeholders.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CVs to Afreximbank@robertwalters.com with the job title “Assistant Manager, Syndication & Risk Distribution (Trade Distribution)” clearly stated in the email subject line for proper consideration.