Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance
Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance

Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance

London Full-Time 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and manage the Portfolio Management Division, overseeing credit risk assessments and ESG factors.
  • Company: UK Export Finance is the UK's export credit agency, supporting UK exports since 1919.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Why this job: Join a mission-driven team making a real impact on UK exports and global trade.
  • Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in risk management are essential for this role.
  • Other info: This position offers a chance to shape the future of risk management in a government setting.

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.

UK EXPORT FINANCE

UKEF is the UK’s export credit agency, founded in 1919 as the world’s first export credit agency. Our mission is to “advance prosperity by ensuring no viable UK export fails for lack of finance and insurance, doing that sustainably and at no net cost to the taxpayer”. We provide loans, guarantees and insurance to help UK companies win overseas sales, fulfil export contracts, and ensure they get paid. We complement, not compete with, the private sector, working with over 100 private credit insurers and lenders.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The principal role of the Department is to support UK companies exporting to foreign markets by providing insurance, loans and guarantees against non-payment or non-performance by UK exporters and overseas buyers. The financial success of the Department is crucially dependent upon sound credit risk assessment, particularly given the elevated default risks associated with emerging markets. The Portfolio Management Division (PMD) is responsible for providing credit reviews for all non-sovereign existing risks, creating the probability of default (PD) ratings and loss given default (LGD) for each one.

This role leads the Portfolio Management Division, which is a core area within the Risk Management Group of UKEF. The division is responsible for management of a large portion of UKEF’s credit and Sovereign risk portfolio. The activities performed by the Division commence after approvals are granted (by the Risk Approval Division) until repayment/extinguishment of liability. This division includes three principal functions:

  • Management of the portfolio of performing cases (Post Issue Management)
  • Credit reviews and ongoing monitoring of UKEF's portfolio (Post Issue Credit Risk)
  • Management of the ESG factors & stress testing on all cases

Main Activities

Leadership and Management
  • Leading, managing and motivating 3 teams (total of approx. 18 FTE); including Managers at Grade 6/7 and a deputy at SCS 1 level.
  • Providing strong thought leadership coupled with significant execution capabilities.
  • Liaising with multiple stakeholders both within UKEF and outside (within the wider government and in the domain of risk experts at other ECAs, Insurers and Banks).
  • Coaching, mentoring and leading from the front on the People Agenda.
Post Issue Management
  • Manage a wide range of post-issue Risk Management activities once Credit approvals have been obtained.
  • Maintaining a robust system for tracking post-approval conditions and receipt of Financial statements.
  • Reporting breaches in covenants and providing waiver approvals in coordination with Credit approvers.
Post Issue Credit Risk Management
  • Ongoing monitoring of credit and loss given default for exposures.
  • Reporting deterioration in the credit profile of clients to Credit approvers.
Environmental, Social and Governance Risk Development
  • Managing the development of ESG factors in all credit ratings and credit risks.
  • Working closely with the UKEF Business Plan and Business teams to review opportunities for UKEF cover.
General
  • Contribute to Risk Management Group policies and strategic projects.
  • Demonstration of risk expertise and recognition as a subject matter expert.
  • Deputising for the CRO and for other Risk SLT members.
  • Budget authority in line with Business requirements.

This list is not exhaustive, and you may be required to carry out additional duties according to business needs.

For further information please contact Nick Irow - 07715 210286

Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance employer: UK Export Finance

UK Export Finance (UKEF) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, UKEF provides numerous growth opportunities within its Risk Management Group, ensuring that team members are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their roles. Located in the heart of the UK, UKEF not only supports the nation's export ambitions but also champions sustainability and social responsibility, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful projects that have a global impact.
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Contact Detail:

UK Export Finance Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in credit risk management and ESG factors. Understanding these areas will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the export finance sector, especially those involved in risk management. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the challenges they face.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you motivate teams. Given that this role involves managing multiple teams, showcasing your ability to lead effectively will be crucial during the interview process.

✨Tip Number 4

Research UKEF's recent projects and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their current operations and strategic goals will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how you can contribute to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance

Leadership and Management
Credit Risk Assessment
Portfolio Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Analytical Skills
Financial Analysis
ESG Risk Management
Project Management
Negotiation Skills
Coaching and Mentoring
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Strategic Thinking

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Portfolio Management position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key activities mentioned in the job description.

Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly outline your relevant experience, particularly in risk management and portfolio oversight. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to manage teams effectively, as well as your expertise in credit risk assessment.

Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for supporting UK exports and your understanding of the role's impact on the organisation. Highlight your strategic thinking and how you can contribute to UKEF’s mission, especially in relation to ESG factors and risk management.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread and edit your documents. Ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos, and that your writing is clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and commitment to quality.

How to prepare for a job interview at UK Export Finance

✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and the key responsibilities of the Head of Portfolio Management. Familiarise yourself with UKEF's mission and how this role contributes to supporting UK exports.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As this role involves leading multiple teams, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed and motivated teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in coaching and mentoring others.

✨Demonstrate Your Risk Management Expertise

Given the focus on credit risk assessment and ESG factors, be ready to discuss your experience in these areas. Prepare to explain how you've handled risk management challenges and your approach to developing strategies for mitigating risks.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

This position requires liaising with various stakeholders, both internally and externally. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with different parties in previous roles, and how you would approach building relationships in this new position.

Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance
UK Export Finance
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  • Head of Portfolio Management - UK Export Finance

    London
    Full-Time
    72000 - 108000 ÂŁ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-06

  • U

    UK Export Finance

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