Trade Finance Officer

A Trade Finance Officer plays a critical role within financial institutions, serving as the pivotal link between banks, importers, and exporters. The primary objective of this role is to facilitate international trade transactions by offering solutions that mitigate risks, enhance performance, and ensure compliance with global trade regulations. The Trade Finance Officer is responsible for managing various trade credit facilities like letters of credit, guarantees, and documentary collections. These professionals ensure that all financial products are processed efficiently while providing timely, accurate, and comprehensive advice to clients and stakeholders involved in import and export activities. They also play a strategic role in driving business growth, maintaining strong client relationships, and improving the overall service quality of trade finance operations. This position demands a keen understanding of global trade laws, financial analytics, and risk management strategies.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate client needs and provide insights for suitable trade finance solutions.
• Assess and approve trade finance credit facilities, ensuring minimization of risks.
• Issue, amend, and manage letters of credit with absolute precision and accuracy.
• Monitor compliance with international trade laws and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships to drive repeat business effectively.
• Coordinate with internal departments to expedite processing of trade finance documents.
• Prepare detailed trade finance reports and documents for reporting and audits.
• Train and mentor junior staff on trade finance processes and best practices.
• Stay informed of global trade market trends to offer clients up-to-date advice.
• Resolve client queries and trade discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.
• Manage and mitigate risks associated with international trade transactions proactively.
• Collaborate with compliance teams to ensure adherence to anti-money laundering policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, international business, or related field required.
• Minimum of three years’ experience in trade finance or related operations.
• Strong understanding of letters of credit, guarantees, and documentary collections.
• Proficient in trade finance software and systems for streamlined operations.
• Excellent analytical skills to assess risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Outstanding communication skills for effective client and stakeholder interactions.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.