Relationship Manager, SME at National Bank of Kenya

Job Reference No. NBK/RET/02/2025

Position Scope:

This position is responsible for business growth within SME Banking segment through acquisition of new business and portfolio growth. He/she will also be required to implement the SME Business Development initiatives within the assigned branch/region, influence business by determining innovative solutions, leverage best practice and assimilate with proven practices to ensure exceptional relationship management and customer experience

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement the SME Banking business development initiatives in line with the MSME Banking strategy and business growth plan.
• Develop and maintain a strong client and transaction pipeline and convert these to businesses that achieve customer satisfaction and the department’s objectives.
• Actively market and drive the uptake of the SME banking services and products to new and existing clients.
• Identify opportunities for cross-selling of relevant products and services.
• Identify opportunities for growth and new business acquisition through market research, analysis and networking.
• Ensure day-to-day client relationship management and engagement with customers to foster good and lasting business partnerships for the customer and the Bank.
• Promote excellent customer experience by driving and advocating customer requirements through the various functions in the Bank to deliver high service standards that delight the customers.
• Ensure compliance with SME Underwriting standards while adhering of the Bank’s policies and other relevant regulations and standards.
• Partner with Regional Management, Branch Management teams and Support Functions to increase the market share of SME Banking segment through sustainable business.
• Drive transactional income from SME Banking business through effective service and cross selling the Bank’s products and services. 
• Provide feedback to Management on SME Banking market analysis and segmentation with regards to products, credit risk evaluation and customer feedback among others.
• In liaison with other stakeholders, ensure quality portfolio management by effective identification of risks and mitigations.
• Conduct preliminary credit reviews and make recommendations for new and existing facilities in line with the Bank’s credit policy and SME Compliance guidelines.
• Regularly monitor performing/nonperforming accounts within the assigned portfolio. Identify and build partnerships with Vendors to ensure delivery of collateral in line with Group Procurement guidelines.
• Develop Brand strategies and plans to boost Brand perception.
• Development of the Brand budget for the financial year.

Education/Professional Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Economics, Finance, Banking or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Credit management training
• Master’s degree in a Business-related field from a recognized University is an added advantage.
• A minimum of Five (5) year’s banking experience in a similar role from a reputable organization.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial thinking.
• Strong persuasion, management, presentation and communication skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management and organizational skills.
• Creative approach, with the ability to anticipate challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Governance – knowledge and ability to ensure good governance practices.
• Credit analysis skills and ability to develop credit reports.