Head of Business Lending at Bank Of Africa

Head of Business Lending at Bank Of Africa

Head of Business Lending

Bank Of Africa

ROLE: Head of Business Lending – BOA Tanzania

Department: SME

Reports to: Head of SME

Summary of Responsibilities:

To lead and manage the SME Lending function by growing a high-quality SME loan and deposit portfolio, structuring innovative financial solutions, ensuring sound credit evaluation, and driving business development. The role supports Bank of Africa’s mission to empower SMEs as a critical segment for economic growth, by providing tailored financing solutions and strategic guidance.

Scope of Duties:

SME Lending Strategy & Portfolio Growth

• Develop and execute SME lending strategies to grow the asset book and increase revenue contribution from the SME segment.
• Drive sales of SME loan products across branches and business centers by working closely with frontline teams and Relationship Managers.
• Design and implement sector-specific lending programs (e.g., agri-business, manufacturing, trade) with tailored risk mitigation tools.
• Identify funding gaps in the SME market and develop appropriate credit products, including working capital, asset finance, and invoice discounting.

Credit Origination & Structuring

• Originate, structure, and assess SME loan transactions from deal negotiation through to approval, ensuring they meet risk-return expectations.
• Lead preparation of comprehensive credit proposals and financial models in collaboration with RMs and Credit Analysts.
• Structure SME deals (e.g. supply chain finance) and align them with bank policy and regulatory requirements.

Credit Risk Management

• Conduct due diligence, financial analysis, and risk assessment for SME lending proposals.
• Provide expert recommendations on credit approvals for high-value SME facilities.
• Monitor early warning signals in the SME loan book and proactively recommend remedial actions.
• Ensure strict compliance with internal credit policies, underwriting standards, and regulatory lending frameworks (BOT, IFRS 9).

Client Relationship

• Build a robust pipeline of SME clients through proactive relationship management and market development.
• Originate new clients in underbanked or emerging SME sectors, offering structured finance solutions and business advisory.
• Act as a subject matter expert for SME lending and represent the bank in client engagement forums, trade events, and partnerships.
• Team Leadership & Capacity Building
• Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of Relationship Managers, and Relationship Officers.
• Set clear performance targets aligned to lending growth, portfolio quality, and client origination.
• Facilitate SME credit skills training programs across the bank to enhance frontline capabilities in lending and portfolio management.

Internal & External Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal departments such as Credit Risk, Legal, Compliance, Treasury, and
• Operations to ensure smooth delivery of SME services.
• Liaise with development finance institutions (DFIs), government programs, and other external partners to leverage co-financing and risk-sharing facilities.

Technical Know How:

• Deep understanding of SME lending dynamics, credit lifecycle, and product development
• Strong financial analysis and credit structuring skills
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and performance management abilities
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills
• High integrity, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking

Professional skills & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Banking, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Master’s degree (MBA) or relevant certifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA Credit analysis Certification) are added advantages.
• Minimum of 5 years in banking, business lending, or structured finance, with 3+ years in leadership or origination role.
• Proven experience in credit analysis, lending product development, and relationship management.

Submission:

All the applicants should submit their application letter, CV and Certificates to email: [email protected]

OR

THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
BANK OF AFRICA – TANZANIA
NDC DEVELOPMENT HOUSE
OHIO / KIVUKONI STREET
P.O Box 3054
DAR ES SALAAM
TANZANIA.

NOTE: We shall communicate to only successful candidates who will meet all the requirements above.