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- Tasks: Lead credit decisioning for SME lending and evaluate loan applications in the German market.
- Company: Join a dynamic fintech company expanding its footprint in the DACH region.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape underwriting strategies while making impactful decisions in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial underwriting and strong knowledge of the German credit landscape required.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities available for junior underwriters and a chance to influence industry practices.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Underwriter to lead credit decisioning for SME lending within the German market. This is a pivotal role focused on evaluating commercial loan applications, developing risk frameworks, and supporting our expansion in the DACH region. You'll be instrumental in shaping the underwriting strategy and ensuring credit quality while enabling scalable, data-driven lending decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate and underwrite SME loan applications from the German market, ensuring alignment with internal credit policy and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct thorough risk assessments, including creditworthiness, cash flow analysis, and collateral evaluation.
- Own complex credit decisions and provide recommendations to the senior leadership and credit committee.
- Refine and localise underwriting models and processes to meet the specific regulatory and commercial dynamics of the German SME sector.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, operations, and legal to drive customer-centric decisions.
- Monitor portfolio performance and proactively adjust credit criteria as needed.
- Mentor junior underwriters and help embed best practices across the underwriting team.
- Stay current on economic, industry, and regulatory developments affecting SME lending in Germany.
Required Skills & Experience
- Commercial underwriting experience, specifically in SME lending for the German market.
- Strong understanding of the German credit and regulatory landscape (e.g., BaFin, KWG, Basel guidelines).
- Deep knowledge of commercial loan products, including term loans, credit lines, invoice finance, and alternative lending models.
- Proven experience working in fintech, challenger banks, or non-bank lenders.
- Strong analytical and financial assessment skills, with experience using both manual and automated underwriting techniques.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both German (native or fluent) and English.
- Ability to work independently and make sound credit decisions under pressure.
Desirable
- Experience with credit scoring models and/or automation tools.
- Exposure to portfolio risk management and performance analytics.
- Understanding of KYC/AML processes in Germany.
- Experience in scaling underwriting operations across European markets.
Senior Underwriter employer: Northreach
Contact Detail:
Northreach Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Underwriter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulatory requirements in Germany, such as BaFin and KWG. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance in SME lending.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the fintech and banking sectors, especially those focused on SME lending. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to gain insights and make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the German SME lending market. Being knowledgeable about current economic conditions and industry shifts will position you as a well-informed candidate during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with credit scoring models and automated underwriting techniques. Highlighting your familiarity with these tools can set you apart from other candidates and show your readiness to contribute to our underwriting strategy.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Underwriter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your commercial underwriting experience, especially in SME lending within the German market. Emphasise your understanding of the German credit and regulatory landscape, as well as any relevant fintech experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about the role and how your skills align with the company's needs. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to evaluate loan applications and make sound credit decisions.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Provide examples in your application that showcase your strong analytical and financial assessment skills. Highlight any experience with both manual and automated underwriting techniques, as this is crucial for the role.
Demonstrate Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, ensure your application is clear and professional. If applicable, mention your fluency in both German and English, as this will be a significant advantage.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northreach
✨Showcase Your Expertise in SME Lending
Make sure to highlight your experience in SME lending during the interview. Discuss specific cases where you evaluated loan applications and how your decisions aligned with credit policies and regulatory requirements.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of the German Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the key regulations affecting SME lending in Germany, such as BaFin and KWG. Be prepared to discuss how these regulations influence your underwriting decisions and risk assessments.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your analytical skills and experience with both manual and automated underwriting techniques. Be ready to explain your approach to cash flow analysis and collateral evaluation in detail.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves cross-functional collaboration, be prepared to share examples of how you've worked with sales, operations, and legal teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive customer-centric decisions through teamwork.
