Officer- Trade Operations at I&M Bank

JOB PURPOSE:

The objective of the job is to thoroughly process Letters of credit (LC) & Standby Letters of Credit (SBLC) in compliance with bank limits and policies, International Customs and Practices for LCs, Standby LCs and Central Bank Prudential guidelines.  To provide timely and efficient service delivery, revenue generation as per set targets, and customer experience, while safeguarding the bank’s interest in prevention of money laundering activities, potential litigations and losses.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Processing of Import Letters of credit and Standbys:

• Receiving, confirming authenticity and completeness of all Letters of Credit/Standbys or amendment applications, and contact customers in case of un-filled application details and for any clarifications.
• Reviewing applications for AML compliance and escalating any AML issue in accordance with AML policy.
• Checking limits sufficiency and preparing Pre-Sanction Memos for approval by the Relationship Managers, where need be.

Processing the Letters of Credit or amendments which involves:

• Drafting in word or SWIFT system and availing these drafts to customers for their approval, where required.
• Issuing the Letter of Credit or amendments, once approved in both Core banking system and in SWIFT system, and collection of commissions and fees in line with the bank’s tariff, or approved concessions
• Responding to customer queries/complaints, or correspondent bank queries

Routine administrative tasks such as:

• Availing (via email), transaction advice and Swift copies to the customers.
• Monitoring the Nostro statements and Reconciliations, and accounting for and/or clearing any outstanding item(s).
• Printing and calling back the daily transaction journals
• Clearing/fructifying expired LC balances
• Following up with correspondent banks on L/Cs not acknowledged/advised 2 banking days after issuance.
• Preparing end month reports i.e GL Balances, Correspondent bank exposure.
• Participate in the regular review of procedure manuals for processes under direct oversight to ensure all changes occurring in the course of year are incorporated while also ensuring to incorporate procedures for new products or services introduced in the year.
• Participate in the update of RCSAs to ensure all emerging risks relating to Letters of Credit and Standby letters of credit.
• Filing and archiving.
• Any other duties as may be guided by Supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES REQUIREMENTS:

Academic Qualifications

• Master’s in Business Administration or its equivalent from a recognized institution will be an added advantage; and
• Bachelor’s degree in a Business-related field from a recognized institution.

Professional Qualifications

• Certified Documentary Credit Specialist (CDCS) or Certificate in International Trade Finance; and
• Member of Association of Kenya Institute of Bankers

Experience

• At least 3 years’ relevant professional experience and track record in processing of trade products.

Generic Competencies

• Ability to write complex letters, comprehensive reports and to perform complex calculations.

Skills and Attributes

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good analytical and Report writing skills.
• Strong planning and organization skills; and
• Robust knowledge on processing trade products with excellent knowledge of professional and industry standards, bank policies and international Trade Customs and Practices, Anti-Money-Laundering (AML) and Trade Based Money Laundering (TBML)

Closing: 22 Oct, 2022