At a Glance
- Tasks: Build strong client relationships and drive growth for SME clients.
- Company: Join Lloyds Banking Group, a leader in commercial banking.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, 30 days holiday, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with flexible working options and excellent career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping SMEs achieve their business goals.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in winning new business and strong communication skills.
Full Time – Cardiff.
Competitive package – Salary Range £85,493 – £100,580.
Hybrid working: at least one day per week in the Cardiff office and up to 20% of time meeting clients. Flexible working options, including job share.
We are looking for a passionate and driven Relationship Director to join our high‑performing SME Commercial Banking team. The role involves building strong client relationships, identifying growth opportunities and delivering meaningful impact. You will manage a defined portfolio of SME clients (turnover £10m‑£50m), ensuring an outstanding client experience while driving sustainable income growth, balance sheet expansion and market share. You will act as the face of Lloyds Banking Group, positioning yourself as a trusted advisor who supports clients’ ambitions.
Responsibilities
- Manage a portfolio of SME clients, delivering tailored solutions across lending, deposits, payments and day‑to‑day banking services.
- Generate new business and expand the client base by identifying and winning new‑to‑bank opportunities through market engagement, networking and relationship building.
- Collaborate with internal product specialists and coverage teams to deliver end‑to‑end services and ensure a joined‑up client experience.
- Build and maintain strong internal and external networks, working with colleagues, group partners and professional introducers to create opportunities for clients.
- Help clients unlock their potential and achieve their business objectives.
- Hold full accountability for risk management within the portfolio, conducting lending assessments, structuring financial solutions and ensuring exposures align with the bank’s risk appetite and credit policies.
Qualifications
- Track record of winning new business in a competitive corporate or commercial banking environment, with a broad network in the local Cardiff commercial market.
- Strong team player and self‑starter with the drive and passion to succeed individually and as part of a wider team.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to build, create and maintain relationships with clients and external partners.
- Proven credit experience: evaluating propositions and making effective commercial recommendations to the Credit team.
- Detailed understanding of legal documentation and ability to negotiate legal and commercial terms.
- Awareness of the different types of risk in a lending environment and ability to minimise such risk.
Benefits
- Generous pension contribution of up to 15%
- Annual performance‑related bonus
- Share schemes including free shares
- Adaptable benefits such as discounted shopping
- 30 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Range of wellbeing initiatives and generous parental leave policies
Equal Opportunity and Diversity
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive, learn and develop. We were one of the first major organisations to set goals on diversity in senior roles and to offer initiatives such as a menopause health package and a Working with Cancer Initiative. We provide reasonable workplace adjustments for colleagues with disabilities, including flexibility in office attendance, location and working patterns. As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee interviews for a fair and proportionate number of applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role with a disability, long‑term health or neurodivergent condition through the Disability Confident Scheme. We also offer a wide‑ranging benefits package designed to support your well‑being and future.
SME Relationship Director in Cardiff employer: Lloyds Bank plc
Lloyds Banking Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Cardiff that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a competitive salary package, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme and flexible working options, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company prioritises inclusivity and well-being, ensuring that all team members can achieve their full potential while making a meaningful impact in the SME banking sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SME Relationship Director in Cardiff
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Lloyds Bank plc. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace SME Relationship Director in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Lloyds Bank plc.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Lloyds Bank plc's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lloyds Bank plc
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Lloyds Bank plc.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Lloyds Bank plc will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Lloyds Bank plc employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
