Credit Manager at Senwes

Job Description

• Agri Credit Solutions provides specialised credit and financing solutions that support sustainable agricultural production and growth. We’re looking for an experienced Credit Manager to take accountability for the effective management, control, and collection of credit within a defined portfolio. This role is pivotal in minimising risk, optimising returns on capital employed, and ensuring sound credit decision-making aligned with business strategy, legislation, and credit policy.

 Evaluation and approval of credit applications

• Evaluating, approving, and managing credit applications in line with Agri Credit Solutions’ credit policy and risk appetite.
• Collaborating with Senwes business partners and management to structure appropriate credit solutions based on client needs, risk profiles, and strategic alignment.
• Analysing financial statements, cash flows, payment histories, and overall creditworthiness of applicants.
• Reviewing and approving security recommendations, including amendments or new security registrations.
• Ensuring full compliance with applicable legislation and internal policies (including NCA, FICA, POPIA, and related frameworks).
• Assessing and motivating any deviations from credit policy and guidelines.
• Determining and evaluating applicable interest rates and fees in collaboration with Relationship Managers and Assistant Credit Managers.
• Monitoring turnaround times and ensuring efficient workflow management across the portfolio.
• Compiling and contributing to reports and analyses relating to risk, exposure, arrears, and portfolio trends.

Pro-active risk management

• Analysing market and industry trends, including grain and agricultural market data, to inform credit decisions.
• Proactively managing risk across all products and accounts within the portfolio.
• Identifying clients who may experience financial distress and initiating early risk mitigation strategies.
• Consulting with internal and external stakeholders to assess and address potential risks.
• Determining suitable options to extend, restructure, or collect credit where required.
• Monitoring progress of risk mitigation actions and reporting on portfolio risk positions.

Recovery

• Analysing management information to identify arrears and deteriorating credit positions.
• Investigating causes of non-performance and engaging clients to agree on corrective actions.
• Initiating recovery actions, including extensions, restructuring, legal processes, or realisation of securities where appropriate.
• Coordinating with legal partners and internal debtor management teams to ensure effective recovery.
• Monitoring client compliance with repayment agreements and approved terms.
• Approving portfolio-related requests impacting security positions and client risk exposure.

Control and securitisation of credit facilities

• Assessing client needs and structuring suitable credit facilities and account types.
• Advising on financing options in collaboration with Relationship Managers, Input Marketers, and Branch Managers.
• Ensuring credit structures align with business strategy, risk tolerance, and product offerings.
• Supporting Senwes business partners in resolving client concerns and maintaining service excellence.
• Identifying opportunities to improve systems, processes, and service delivery to enhance value creation.

Management and development of staff

• Managing team members in line with labour legislation, company policies, and procedures.
• Setting clear performance expectations and providing regular, constructive feedback.
• Supporting employee development through coaching, mentoring, and development plans.
• Sharing knowledge, industry insights, and best practices to enhance team capability and compliance.
• Promoting a collaborative, high-performance team culture focused on accountability and continuous improvement.

Job Requirements

• Qualifications: National Senior Certificate or a relevant B-degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Risk Management.
• Requirements (South Africa): Minimum of 7 years relevant industry experience (with a national senior certificate) or 5 years relevant industry experience (With relevant B-degree).
• Key skills: Strong financial analysis and credit risk assessment skills. In-depth knowledge of credit legislation, governance, and compliance requirements. Ability to engage effectively with clients, business partners, and internal stakeholders.