Credit Manager at Ascentech Services Limited

Job Summary

• We are seeking an experienced and performance-driven Credit Manager to oversee and coordinate credit operations across the South-South region, with a primary base in Benin City and regional oversight of Warri and Port Harcourt.
• The ideal candidate should have a solid background in micro-lending, fintech credit platforms (e.g., Palmpay, Opay), or microfinance institutions, and must be skilled in field-based credit assessment and loan recovery.
• As Credit Manager, you will be responsible for portfolio quality, credit evaluation, risk mitigation, and team leadership while working closely with field agents to ensure effective borrower screening and repayment compliance.

Key Responsibilities
Credit Operations & Risk Management:

• Manage and monitor all credit activities within Benin, Warri, and Port Harcourt.
• Define and implement region-specific credit policies and procedures.
• Review and approve loan applications, ensuring compliance with risk standards.
• Track portfolio performance, including loan disbursement, delinquency, and collections.
• Ensure prompt resolution of credit issues and maintain portfolio health.

Field Engagement & Client Assessment:

• Collaborate with sales and field officers to evaluate borrower credibility on-site.
• Conduct physical inspections of client businesses to validate loan applications.
• Use real-time data and local intelligence to drive credit decisions.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and support a regional credit team comprising a Credit Risk Officer, Loan Officer, and Recovery Agent.
• Set performance goals, track KPIs, and provide coaching for professional development.
• Cultivate a culture of accountability, transparency, and integrity.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure all lending activities comply with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor KYC processes, loan agreements, affordability checks, and recovery documentation.
• Implement risk controls and ensure audit readiness across all credit functions.

Reporting & Collaboration:

• Prepare regular reports on regional loan performance and risk exposure.
• Provide insights and recommendations to the National Head of Credit.
• Partner with operations, finance, and tech teams to improve credit tools and workflows.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field (MBA or professional certification is an added advantage).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in credit management, loan administration, or risk analysis—preferably in fintech, consumer finance, or microfinance.
• Proven track record in loan portfolio management and recoveries.
• Experience managing multi-location credit teams.
• Familiarity with South-South business environment and client demographics.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Sound analytical and risk assessment abilities.
• Proficiency in credit evaluation tools and digital platforms.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• High integrity, reliability, and field-readiness.

Working Conditions:

• Role based in Benin City, with regular field visits to Warri and Port Harcourt.
• Field-intensive; candidate must be comfortable with travel and on-the-ground assessments.
• Hybrid work model with emphasis on regional performance delivery.