Relationship Manager, Lending (Port Harcourt) at AVA Capital Group

JOB SUMMARY

• The Relationship Manager is responsible for driving revenue growth through proactive client acquisition, effective relationship management, and successful origination and disbursement of loan products. The role focuses on identifying creditworthy clients, structuring appropriate lending solutions, managing end-to-end loan sales, and maintaining long-term relationships that support portfolio growth and asset quality. The Relationship Manager serves as the primary point of contact for clients and works closely with relevant teams to ensure timely loan processing, disbursement, and post-disbursement monitoring.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Relationship Management

• Develop, manage, and retain strong relationships with new and existing clients, including individuals, SMEs, and High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs).
• Maintain regular engagement with clients to understand evolving financial needs and proactively offer suitable lending solutions.
• Handle client inquiries, complaints, and service issues promptly, escalating when necessary to ensure timely resolution.
• Monitor client satisfaction levels and implement strategies to improve customer retention and repeat business.

Loan Sales and Business Development

• Identify, prospect, and onboard new clients through direct marketing, referrals, networking, and strategic partnerships.
• Promote and sell the Company’s loan products, including consumer loans, asset financing, SME loans, and other approved credit offerings.
• Prepare and present loan proposals, term sheets, and product recommendations tailored to clients’ financial needs and risk profiles.
• Achieve assigned loan booking, disbursement, and revenue targets in line with the Company’s growth objectives.
• Collaborate with the Marketing teams to support campaigns and initiatives aimed at expanding the loan portfolio.

Credit Assessment and Loan Processing

• Engage prospective borrowers to obtain complete and accurate information required for loan applications.
• Conduct preliminary assessment of clients’ financial statements, cash flows, credit history, and collateral to determine loan feasibility.
• Liaise with Credit and Risk teams to ensure proper documentation, credit appraisal, and compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure timely submission of loan applications and follow up to drive prompt approval and disbursement.
• Support loan structuring discussions to balance client needs with the Company’s risk appetite.

Loan Disbursement and Portfolio Management

• Coordinate with Operations to ensure accurate and timely loan disbursement in line with approved terms and conditions.
• Confirm fulfillment of all pre-disbursement conditions and documentation requirements.
• Monitor disbursed loans to ensure proper utilization and compliance with agreed repayment terms.
• Proactively follow up with clients on repayments and support early resolution of potential delinquencies.
• Assist in managing loan renewals, top-ups, and restructurings where applicable to grow portfolio value and minimize credit risk.

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• BSc or HND in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, Economics, or a related discipline.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong understanding of lending products, credit processes, and financial analysis.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Strong relationship management, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proven sales ability with a strong drive to meet and exceed loan targets.
• Sound business and financial acumen with attention to detail.
• Ability to assess risk and make informed credit recommendations.
• Persuasive, client-focused, and results-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, target-driven environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to address issues proactively.
• Capacity to engage, manage, and retain High Net Worth Individuals and key accounts.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in relationship management, loan sales, or credit-related roles within the Financial Services or Lending sector.