Senior Relationship Manager - Commercial Banking

Absa Bank Limited is seeking a Senior Relationship Manager for its Commercial Banking division. The primary purpose of this role is to manage and sustain a portfolio of Commercial customers, building long-term relationships founded on efficient and reliable support for their business. This is achieved through quick risk decisions and maintaining consistency and quality of operational service. The jobholder will be responsible for maximizing risk-adjusted portfolio contribution and driving business development with both new and existing customers to increase 'wallet share'.

Key Responsibilities

Sales and Service (65%)

• Achieve annual financial targets including Balance Sheet Growth, Revenue, Profitability, and Market Share Growth.
• Maintain Portfolio At Risk (PAR) within set limits to minimize potential Non-Performing Loans (NPL).
• Drive customer satisfaction (NPS score) and identify opportunities for business development.
• Maintain and prioritize Customer Account Plans for all customers in the portfolio.
• Conduct Annual and Interim Reviews of borrowing and non-borrowing customer facilities.
• Communicate key messages such as service standards, pricing, and new product changes to clients.
• Resolve customer complaints and proactively sell products that meet customer needs.
• Research and follow up on target lists for potential new business.

Business Management (30%)

• Identify priority customers using account planning templates to assess their potential contributions.
• Gather required information to prepare and assess credit applications, working with Assistant Relationship Managers and Corporate Credit Managers.
• Adhere to approved policies and procedures and provide feedback to keep them competitive.
• Ensure 100% SLA adherence to agreed turnaround times.
• Control portfolio quality using available triggers and adhering to Risk management guidelines.
• Ensure audit issues are closed with nil repeat findings.

Staff Management (5%)

• Provide day-to-day coaching and development for portfolio Assistant Relationship Managers (ARMs).
• Conduct performance tracking and periodic reviews of supporting ARMs.
• Contribute to making the bank a great place to work through active feedback.

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Detailed knowledge of Commercial and Corporate products available at Absa.
• Ability to handle complex products and sophisticated customer requirements.
• Broad understanding of country-specific policies and strategies relating to customer demands.
• Detailed understanding of Country and Group guidelines regarding Credit Risk and management.
• Strong relationship management and business development skills.

Qualifications and Experience

• A relevant business-related degree from a recognized university.
• Additional professional or advanced qualifications are an added advantage.
• At least 5 years of experience in relationship management within Business or Corporate Banking.