Head of Risk & Compliance Officer at Aspire Lending Limited

Reports To: Head of Finance

Job Purpose:

To assess, manage, and monitor credit risk by evaluating loan applications, verifying collateral/security, determining appropriate loan amounts, detecting fraud, and ensuring portfolio quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess loan applications and determine the level of risk involved.
• Analyze client financial statements, cash flows, and repayment capacity.
• Evaluate and verify collateral/security provided (e.g., vehicle logbooks, assets).
• Determine appropriate loan amounts based on risk exposure and repayment ability.
• Provide recommendations to the Credit Committee regarding loan approvals or declines.
• Develop and implement risk assessment frameworks and credit policies.
• Monitor loan performance and repayment trends.
• Identify early warning signs of default and recommend corrective actions.
• Conduct periodic portfolio reviews and risk analysis.
• Detect and investigate fraudulent loan applications or suspicious transactions.
• Ensure proper documentation and compliance with internal and regulatory standards.
• Work closely with the collections team to manage delinquent accounts.
• Prepare risk reports for management and board review.
• Conduct branch audits to ensure adherence to credit policies.
• Train staff on risk management and fraud detection measures.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Portfolio at Risk (PAR) ratio.
• Default rate.
• Recovery rate.
• Fraud detection and prevention metrics.
• Compliance with risk policies.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Business, or related field.
• Professional certification in Risk Management, CPA, ACCA, or related qualification is an added advantage.
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in credit analysis or risk management in microfinance or banking.
• Strong analytical and financial assessment skills.
• Experience in collateral verification and loan monitoring.
• Ability to detect fraudulent documentation and suspicious behavior.

Key Competencies:

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Integrity and confidentiality.
• Investigative mindset.
• Strong reporting and presentation skills.