At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and launch of a new secured lending operational model.
- Company: Join Zempler, a forward-thinking British business bank redefining finance access.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Shape the future of lending while building something impactful from scratch.
- Qualifications: Experience in lending operations and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Build the Operational Engine Behind a New Lending Proposition - At Zempler, we're redefining how businesses access finance.
As we expand our secured lending capability, we're looking for an exceptional Head of Secured Lending Operations Mobilisation to design, build and launch the operational foundations of our new Commercial Real Estate lending proposition.
This is a unique opportunity to join at the very beginning of the journey and help create an operating model from the ground up.
You'll play a critical leadership role in translating strategy into execution, ensuring our secured lending proposition launches with the processes, controls, technology, governance and service experience needed to scale successfully.
This isn't a traditional operations leadership role. You'll be building something new.
The Opportunity
Zempler is developing a dual-path Commercial Real Estate lending proposition designed to support businesses across a range of borrowing needs:
Accelerated Lending Solution for standardised CRE transactions up to £2m, leveraging automation, decision intelligence and data-driven processing.
Relationship-Led Structured Lending for larger and more complex lending requirements where specialist expertise and relationship management remain central.
As Head of Secured Lending Operations Mobilisation, you'll be responsible for ensuring both pathways are operationally robust, customer-focused, well controlled and launch-ready.
You'll work across Product, Technology, Data, Decision Science, Underwriting, Risk, Financial Crime, Finance and Operations, creating an operating model that can move seamlessly from mobilisation into long-term business ownership.
- What You'll Be Doing
- Design and Launch the Operating Model
- Lead the design, build, testing and implementation of the end-to-end secured lending operating model.
- Create operational processes, controls, service standards, governance frameworks and readiness plans.
- Ensure systems, suppliers, data flows, reporting, case management and customer journeys are fully prepared for launch.
- Define and deliver operational acceptance criteria and launch readiness evidence.
- Lead cutover planning, stabilisation activities and transition into BAU ownership.
- Build the Accelerated Lending Solution
- Own the operational design required to support automated and technology-enabled lending journeys.
- Partner closely with Technology, Data, Decision Science and Credit teams to define workflows, controls and exception management processes.
- Design customer, broker and colleague journeys that balance speed, consistency and strong customer outcomes.
- Establish operational requirements across onboarding, data capture, decisioning, underwriting referrals, completion and servicing.
- Ensure operational controls support transparent, compliant and auditable lending decisions.
- Shape Future Lending Operations
- Design operating models that support both automation-led and relationship-led lending pathways.
- Define operational hand-offs and responsibilities across multiple functions.
- Create scalable operational frameworks capable of supporting future growth.
- Support the development of service metrics, management information and performance reporting.
- Build operational processes that deliver excellent customer and broker experiences.
- Lead Readiness, Governance and Controls
- Establish operational governance, risk management and control frameworks.
- Ensure clear management of exceptions, escalations and human intervention points.
- Define how automated journeys transition into manual review when required.
- Partner with Risk, Financial Crime and Compliance teams to ensure appropriate operational control environments.
- Support testing, validation and evidencing of operational effectiveness before launch.
- Support operational teams, suppliers and stakeholders through launch and post-launch activities.
- Identify and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively.
- Drive continuous improvement based on customer, broker and colleague feedback.
- Develop plans for capability growth and transition into long-term operational ownership.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a leader who combines operational excellence with the ability to build and mobilise new capabilities.
You’ll likely bring
- Significant experience leading lending, banking or financial services operations.
- Experience designing and implementing target operating models, transformations or large-scale change programmes.
- Strong understanding of secured lending, commercial lending or mortgage operations.
- Experience creating operational processes, controls and governance frameworks.
- A proven track record of delivering complex cross-functional programmes involving technology, risk and operational stakeholders.
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Experience working with third-party suppliers and technology partners.
- A pragmatic, hands-on approach with the ability to move between strategic planning and detailed execution.
- Experience in commercial real estate lending, challenger banking, specialist lending or lending transformation programmes would be highly advantageous.
You’ll have the chance to
- Build a secured lending operation from the ground up.
- Help launch a new Commercial Real Estate proposition within a growing UK bank.
- Work at the intersection of lending, technology, data and operational transformation.
- Shape the future operating model for both automated and relationship-led lending journeys.
- Partner with senior leaders to influence key strategic decisions.
- Leave a lasting legacy by creating the foundations for long-term growth.
- About Zempler
Formerly Cashplus Bank, Zempler is a British business bank focused on making financial services simpler, smarter and more accessible.
We're combining innovative technology with human expertise to create better banking experiences for businesses across the UK.
As we continue to grow, we're looking for ambitious people who want to help us challenge convention and build something meaningful.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At Zempler, we know that diverse teams create better outcomes for our customers, colleagues and communities.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Even if you don't meet every requirement listed, we'd encourage you to apply if you're excited about the opportunity.
If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we'll be happy to support you
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Secured Lending Ops Mobilisation in Liverpool employer: Zempler Bank
Zempler Bank is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a flexible hybrid work model that fosters a healthy work-life balance. With a compelling benefits package, including 26 holidays and additional allowances, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The collaborative work culture encourages innovation and supports the development of high-performing teams, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the banking sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Secured Lending Ops Mobilisation in Liverpool
✨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 Zempler Bank. 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 Head of Secured Lending Ops Mobilisation in Liverpool
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 Zempler Bank.
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 Zempler Bank'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 Zempler Bank
✨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 Zempler Bank.
✨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 Zempler Bank 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 Zempler Bank 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.
