Loans Officer Role JBLE1_NI in Ballymena

Join Evolve CU and Help Make a Difference. At Evolve CU, our members are at the heart of everything we do. We are a member-owned financial cooperative committed to helping people access fair, affordable financial services while improving financial wellbeing across the communities we serve. Guided by our belief that "We Make A Difference Because We Care," we pride ourselves on delivering a welcoming, supportive and professional service to every member.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys helping people, making informed decisions and building positive relationships while contributing to a purpose-driven organisation. The role offers a salary of £14.20 per hour (£27,690 per annum) and you will be required to work between our four offices in Ballymena, Antrim, Coleraine and Randalstown.

Working Pattern: 37.5 hours per week. Hours will be scheduled between Monday and Saturday in accordance with the rota agreed in advance with the Line Manager. The successful candidate will be required to work at least two Saturdays in every four, with an alternative day off during the week. Flexibility will be required to adjust hours where requested in advance by the Line Manager.

The Role: As a Loans Officer, you will play a key role in supporting members throughout the lending journey, from initial application through to loan decision and completion. You will assess loan applications, engage with members to understand their circumstances and make responsible lending decisions in line with Evolve CU policies and regulatory requirements. You will also help ensure our members receive an excellent experience by providing clear guidance, professional support and outstanding service at every stage. This role requires strong communication skills, sound judgement, attention to detail and a commitment to delivering fair and responsible outcomes for our members.

• Key Responsibilities:
• Member Support & Engagement
• Act as a key point of contact for members throughout the lending process.
• Meet with members to discuss their financial circumstances and borrowing requirements.
• Provide clear information and guidance on loan products and services.
• Build positive and trusted relationships with members.
• Communicate lending decisions professionally, clearly and sensitively.
• Maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Support promotional and community engagement activities where required.
• Lending Operations
• Assess and process loan applications accurately, fairly and efficiently.
• Review supporting documentation and financial information.
• Make lending decisions within delegated authority limits.
• Ensure all lending decisions align with responsible lending principles and internal policies.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records throughout the lending process.
• Assist in monitoring and managing the loan portfolio.
• Promote fair and accessible financial solutions that meet members' needs.
• Compliance & Teamwork
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies and procedures.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across lending, operations and member services.
• Promote best practice in lending and member support.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.
• Work towards relevant industry qualifications, including the Pathways Certificate in Credit Union Practice where appropriate.
• Contribute positively to a supportive and professional team environment.

Essential Criteria:

• Minimum of 2 years' experience within a financial services, lending, banking, credit union or other regulated environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Ability to analyse information and make sound decisions.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong numerical and administrative skills.
• Experience working with IT systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage confidential information appropriately.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable Criteria:

• Previous experience assessing loan applications and making lending recommendations or decisions.
• Knowledge of Credit Union principles and ethics.
• Relevant financial services qualification.
• Experience working within a member-focused organisation.
• Understanding of consumer credit regulations and responsible lending practices.

Our Values: At Evolve CU, we are guided by strong values that shape everything we do: Integrity, Accountability, Professionalism, Respect. We are committed to delivering services with care, accuracy and responsibility while creating a welcoming environment for both members and colleagues.

About You: You are someone who genuinely enjoys helping people and making a positive difference. You understand that borrowing money is often linked to important life events and circumstances, and you approach every interaction with empathy, professionalism and respect. You are comfortable assessing information, exercising sound judgement and communicating decisions clearly and fairly. You take pride in maintaining high standards, handling confidential information responsibly and ensuring every member receives an excellent experience. You enjoy working as part of a team, are willing to learn and develop professionally, and share our commitment to putting members first. Most importantly, you share our belief that we make a difference because we care.

Company Benefits: 32 days annual leave, inclusive of 11.