Credit Risk: ISG Lending, CRE Vice President

Firm Risk Management

Firm Risk Management (FRM) supports Morgan Stanley to achieve its business goals by partnering with business units across the Firm to realize efficient risk-adjusted returns, acting as a strategic advisor to the Board and protecting the Firm from exposure to losses as a result of credit, market, liquidity, model and other risks.

Background on the Position

The role will reside within the Firm Risk Management's Credit Risk Management area which is a team dedicated to evaluating credit risk transactions considering the availability and appropriateness of arrangements for reducing risk or risk mitigation. The department also assigns Internal Credit Ratings; establishes and manages credit risk limits in accordance with the risk tolerance established by the Board; monitors and reports on credit risk exposures on a regular basis to the Chief Risk Officer and Firm Risk Management. CRM also interacts with business units to ensure that credit risk assessments are factored into business decisions.

This is a multi-faceted role responsible for coverage of Commercial Real Estate (CRE) transactions secured on all property types. The principal responsibilities include the evaluation of new transactions, managing a rapidly growing portfolio of existing loans, and monitoring upcoming renewals and repayments.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Credit coverage of the Institutional Securities Group (ISG) Commercial Real Estate business including both CMBS and balance sheet lending
• Present and defend credit analyses and recommendations to senior management, credit committees, and other key stakeholders
• Collaborate with business units, regulatory agencies, internal audit, and external partners to ensure robust risk management practices
• Own the evaluation and approval process for new facility originations, renewals, amendments, and loan modifications, escalating issues as appropriate
• Ensure timely review of annual and quarterly reviews of existing loans by the credit coverage team, maintaining consistent high-quality documentation, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders
• Recommend and implement risk mitigation strategies, ensuring alignment with firm-wide risk appetite and regulatory requirements
• Train, mentor, and develop junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth

Qualifications

Minimum 8-10 years of experience in Commercial Real Estate (CRE) underwriting, credit risk or similar CRE Credit role. Have a good knowledge of typical CRE transaction structures, documentation, and the lending process. Curiosity and self-motivation to develop expertise in commercial real estate products, markets, and risk management practice. Highly organized, able to independently manage multiple priorities in fast-paced environment. Strong leadership and is a collaborative team player who builds strong relationships and influences outcomes across diverse groups. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to present complex concepts clearly to senior stakeholders. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree or CFA Charter holder is a plus.