Micro Credit Officer at Winas Saving And Credit Co-operative Society Limited

To manage and oversee the micro-credit lending process, including loan origination, assessment, disbursement, and recovery. The Micro Credit Officer will also develop strategies for growing the SACCO's micro-lending portfolio while maintaining quality and ensuring compliance with regulatory and internal risk management standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Identify and assess potential micro-credit clients (individuals, groups, SMEs, chamas, etc.) by conducting detailed business intelligence, financial analysis, and site visits.
• Guide and support members in preparing loan applications, ensuring they meet SACCO’s credit criteria.
• Review loan applications, creditworthiness, and risk profiles, ensuring compliance with SACCO policies and SASRA regulations.
• Conduct credit analysis, including assessing financial statements, business plans, and other relevant documentation.
• Oversee the approval and disbursement of approved loans, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Regularly monitor disbursed loans to ensure that repayments are being made according to the terms of the loan agreement.
• Conduct periodic site visits to monitor the use of loans and ensure they are being utilized as per the agreed terms.
• Proactively manage loan recovery processes by engaging with clients who fall behind on payments and developing personalized repayment solutions.
• Work closely with the legal department to initiate recovery actions where necessary, including initiating loan defaults and legal recovery processes.
• Monitor the loan portfolio to minimize non-performing loans (NPLs) and improve the PAR
• Build and maintain strong relationships with micro-loan clients to foster loyalty and reduce defaults.
• Offer financial guidance, training, and support to loan recipients to ensure they effectively use the funds and repay loans on time.
• Conduct regular follow-up meetings with clients to assess progress, address challenges, and provide advisory services.
• Develop strategies to expand the SACCO’s micro-lending portfolio, particularly targeting high-growth sectors such as agriculture, retail, women-led businesses, and youth enterprises.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities to grow the member base, including participating in financial literacy and member education campaigns.
• Work with the marketing team to promote micro-credit products to potential clients.
• Ensure compliance with SACCO's credit policies, SASRA regulations, and the Kenya Financial Institutions Act regarding micro-credit operations.
• Maintain accurate loan records and prepare regular reports on portfolio performance, arrears, loan losses, and risk assessments for senior management.
• Ensure that all loan documentation, including agreements and collateral, is complete, secure, and legally binding.

Key Qualifications and Competencies

Academic & Professional Qualifications

• Minimum Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (C+) Plus.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• A professional qualification diploma in Credit Management e.g., CICM or minimum  CPA section 11
• Age 30 - 40 years.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in micro-credit or small business lending, preferably within a SACCO, microfinance institution, or bank.
• Proven track record in credit analysis, portfolio management, and loan recovery.