Credit Officer / LBO

Credit Officer / LBO

Job Level: Associate Job Function: Governance & Assurance Location: New York, NY, US Employment Type: Full Time The anticipated salary range for this role is between $80,000.00 and $135,000.00. The specific salary offered to an applicant will be based on their individual qualifications, experiences, and an analysis of the current compensation paid in their geography and the market for similar roles at the time of hire. The role may also be eligible for an annual discretionary incentive award. In addition to cash compensation, SMBC offers a competitive portfolio of benefits to its employees.

Role Description

Review and challenge of credit applications submitted by the front office and the preparation / presentation of executive summaries and recommendations to the management of the Credit Department. The coverage includes lending transactions related to Middle Market LBOs and their related financial products (derivative, hedging etc.) but also to Non-Investment Grade Large Cap borrowers with complex capital structure and leveraged loan transactions (leverage lending and/or ABL transactions). The scope of the analysis and the review includes, but not limited to, obligor credit risk, projections, transaction background, deal structure, facility terms and conditions, US regulatory classification, profitability, and relationship strategy.

Role Objectives

• Analyze various elements of credit risk and transaction specifics, primarily for Middle Market obligors, and provide an effective review and challenge to the front office (line 1).
• Prepare written executive summaries/comments of credit applications submitted from the front office and present to the management of the Credit Department.
• Engage with front office to assist with due diligence and structuring, identify key credit risks and main credit concerns and challenge assumptions prior to formal credit submission.
• Coordinate the credit approval process by liaising between the front office and the management of the Credit Department.
• Provide feedback and guidance, as necessary, to business units to ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures standards.
• Monitor and supervise problem assets including classified loans and present written memorandum/reports to management.
• Contribute to portfolio review, loan reviews and pass watch or any special credit reviews.
• Manage compliance with internal policies, workflow procedures and ensure US regulatory requirements are met in each credit application. Stay informed about relevant regulations and industry best practices.
• Other credit related work/projects as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

Minimum 3+ years of relevant work experience preferably within a credit risk function (formal credit training preferred, second line of defense). Experience and knowledge of middle market (and non-investment grade large cap) leverage loans highly preferred. Prior experience interacting with US Regulators (Fed, OCC or FDIC) preferred. Ability to adapt to SMBC's credit philosophy and risk appetite. Critical thinking to understand factors impacting portfolio creditworthiness such as economic downturn, market volatility, industry disruptions or changes in interest rates, and ability to analyze a vast and complex amount of information and quickly render credit decisions. Risk sensitivity and ability to steer decisions through discussions with the business units. Ability to manage significant deal volume in a fast-paced environment and analyze credit application and prepare written summary in a short timeframe and in a multitasking environment. Strong organizational, oral, and written communication skills, with ability to communicate effectively with all levels of support and business partners. Undergraduate degree in Finance, Business Administration or related fields. MBA/CFA or other professional qualification highly preferred.