Business Development Manager – Projects at Equity Bank Kenya

The role holder will be responsible for managing the Project Finance portfolio within the Sector, including identifying new business opportunities and developing relevant monitoring, evaluation and appraisal tools in collaboration with key stakeholders. They will work closely with Team Leads (TL), Relationship Managers (RMs) and other business units to facilitate the closure of opportunities, structuring deals and ensuring alignment with credit and policy guidelines. The role involves monitoring project performance to maintain quality, driving revenue growth and aligning renewable energy and project finance strategies with the Bank's broader goals. The position offers leadership to the team while contributing to balance sheet optimization activities such as asset pricing and facility structuring.

 Key Responsibilities

Generation of Opportunities & Closure:

• Scan the market for real estate business opportunities and effectively convert them into profitable deals.
• Drive the generation of 30% of deposit opportunities, 30% of loan opportunities, and 30% of insurance opportunities.
• Establish and nurture partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders in the built environment to fuel business growth.
• Ensures successful project completion in liaison with project stakeholders.
• Conduct thorough quantity calculations and detailed costs estimations based on architectural, structural, mechanical drawings and any other relevant documents for all projects availed for funding.
• Identity and assess potential risks and resources constraints that could affect project timelines and budgets.
• Propose effective mitigation strategies and ensure the Team implements cost-effective solution.
• Advise Project Managers on potential cost-saving alternatives and manage financial risks onsite.
• Engage with clients to gather deal requirements, financial statements, and other necessary inputs for comprehensive analysis and due diligence, in close collaboration with Relationship Managers (RMs) and Credit Analysts.
• Regularly review the Real Estate Product paper to ensure it aligns with emerging business needs and remains responsive to the evolving project finance landscape.
• Collaborate closely with RMs, product partners, and credit analysts to structure tailored credit solutions and ensure the appropriateness of offered products.
• Work alongside the RM in deal structuring and other account optimization initiatives to maximize value.
• Ensure full compliance with internal and regulatory credit policies, including preparing the Country Portfolio Standard Checklist and addressing special reporting requirements.
• Provide valuable input to the work performed by RMs and Credit Analysts, contributing to the success of Real Estate and Project Finance activities.

 Post Deal Account Monitoring:

• Prepare and submit detailed cost reports to internal teams and Clients highlighting any budget deviations and recommending corrective actions.
• Lead in initiating and coordinating the monitoring and evaluation of project performance throughout the execution phase, ensuring quality, adherence to scope, and timely completion.
• Communicate project financial status clearly to stakeholders ensuring transparency and clarity in financial matters
• Assist in valuation of variations to the original scope of works , ensuring that adjustments are accurately reflected in the projects financial reports.
• Regularly attend site visits and project meetings to ensure active involvement in projects under construction.
• Review and adjustment of Interim Credit Proposals based on business requirements and evolving project dynamics.
• Ensure proper documentation and record -keeping for all projects.
• Remain abreast of industry trends, innovations and regulatory changes and recommend for incorporation in the bank’s Product Papers / Policies.
• Contribute to the development of internal processes that improve efficiency and cost management for all projects funded by the bank.
• Liaise with Credit Risk on credit proposals and related issues, ensuring rapid resolution of any queries or concerns.
• Participate in EAR/Portfolio calls alongside Relationship Managers (RMs) and Credit Originators to address key project matters.
• Partner with RMs to promptly identify accounts for EAR placement, ensuring compliance with the bank’s policies and guidelines.
• Support the Group Special Assets Management team in efficiently unwinding real estate and project finance deals, ensuring smooth transitions and optimal outcomes.

 Other Responsibilities:

• Endeavour to have the project management, project appraisal, processes and procedures within the bank automated.
• Review and assess policies and product offerings for Project Finance, recommending and implementing necessary changes for improvement.
• Continuously evaluate Project Finance policies and propose strategic adjustments to enhance effectiveness and alignment with market needs.
• Execute timely stress tests as required, ensuring robust risk management and financial stability.
• Prepare sector reports as needed, providing valuable insights to inform decision-making.
• Optimize the use of bank systems and CRM tools to enhance efficiency, track progress, and manage relationships effectively.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, Construction Management or related field
• Professional Certification in the field of Built Environment an added advantage
• Minimum 8 years of relevant experience, 5 of which must be as a Quantity Surveyor in the built environment.
• Experience in the Banking industry is a necessary advantage.