Relationship Manager – ARISE Implant (China Corridor)
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank)
Cotonou, Benin · West Africa
Role type
Development Finance & Multilaterals
Experience
Mid-level
Language
English; French an advantage
Summary
Cotonou-based Relationship Manager role supporting Afreximbank's strategic partnership with ARISE IIP by originating, structuring and delivering export development finance solutions across ARISE's Special Economic Zone network, with a focus on the China Corridor.
About the role
The successful candidate will support Afreximbank's strategic partnership with ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) by promoting, facilitating and delivering export development finance solutions across the ARISE network of Special Economic Zones. Working closely with clients, banks and financial institutions, the role holder will originate and structure financing solutions, facilitate client onboarding, coordinate transaction execution and strengthen relationships across the banking ecosystem. The role is instrumental in enabling access to financial services that support industrialisation, export growth and investment within the ARISE IIP network.
Key responsibilities
Develop innovative and appropriate financing solutions tailored to client projects within ARISE IIP Special Economic Zones
Facilitate the provision of suitable banking and financial products while supporting client onboarding through effective processes and systems
Act as the primary liaison between banks, financial institutions and clients throughout the transaction lifecycle
Assist in evaluating, structuring, negotiating and closing financing transactions with banks and other financial institutions
Apply strong financial expertise and relationship management skills to achieve successful transaction outcomes
Ensure timely execution of transactions and availability of funding in accordance with banking requirements and approved timelines
Analyse the operational and financial performance of prospective clients, review investment proposals, assess transaction risks and opportunities, and provide recommendations to financial institutions
Manage end-to-end communication between clients and financial institutions, including information gathering, transaction coordination and post-transaction feedback
Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients, commercial banks, development finance institutions and other stakeholders within the regional and global lending ecosystem
Foster effective collaboration across diverse teams and stakeholders to support the successful delivery of financing solutions
Understand and adhere to the Bank's AML, regulatory and conduct compliance policies and procedures
Key requirements
Postgraduate degree in Business Administration, Banking, Finance or a related discipline from a recognised university, or a recognised postgraduate professional qualification in Banking, Financial Services, Insurance or a related field
At least 8 years' experience as a Relationship Manager within the banking industry
Strong knowledge of banking practices across Africa and the ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse environment
Proven experience in structured trade finance, syndicated lending and project finance
In-depth knowledge of corporate banking products and financial solutions
Demonstrated experience in client relationship management and business development within corporate banking
Strong credit analysis, transaction documentation and relationship management skills
Ability to assess customer requirements and develop appropriate financing solutions
Strong people management and stakeholder engagement skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines
Nice to have
Knowledge of one or more of Afreximbank's other working languages (French, Arabic or Portuguese)
Full-time, mid-senior level position based in Cotonou, Benin. Benefits include private health insurance, training & development and a performance bonus. Apply via the official Afreximbank Workable application portal.