Relationship Manager in Manchester

Zenith Bank (UK) Limited (ZBUK) is the UK subsidiary of Zenith Bank Plc, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, renowned for its strong performance, innovation, and market leadership. In 2023, Zenith Bank Plc was the only Nigerian company recognised in the World Finance 100 list by World Finance Magazine, reflecting its global standing and excellence. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the PRA, ZBUK delivers fully UK-regulated banking services to corporates with international and cross-border requirements.

We play a key role in facilitating trade and investment flows between Africa, Europe, and the wider global market. Our core offerings include intermediary banking solutions, trade-related working capital, capital expenditure financing, treasury and foreign exchange solutions, as well as a comprehensive suite of corporate and institutional banking services. In addition, our Wealth Management division provides High-Net-Worth Individuals with bespoke cross-border solutions, including offshore banking, investment services, buy-to-let mortgages, and foreign exchange. Clients also benefit from access to a trusted network of specialist partners delivering tax planning, estate planning, and fiduciary services.

At ZBUK, we are committed to building a high-performance and inclusive workplace where our people can thrive. We support our employees with opportunities for professional growth, encourage innovation, and foster long-term career development in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

We are seeking a high-performing Relationship Manager to support the growth of the Manchester Branch by driving business development across both Corporate Banking and Wealth Management. The successful candidate will originate, manage, and grow a portfolio of corporate and institutional clients while also building and expanding a book of High Net Worth Individual (HNWI) clients. The role involves delivering high-quality relationship management, proactive business development, and effective operational support, alongside providing a premium, personalised banking experience across offshore banking, wealth solutions, and investment services.

Working closely with the Head of Wealth Management in London, the role holder will support the delivery of specialised services, including investment advisory, to meet the complex needs of HNWI clients. The candidate will also leverage the Bank’s international network and collaborate across product, treasury, credit, and compliance teams to deliver seamless client solutions and drive overall growth.

Role Responsibilities

• Business Development & Client Acquisition: Proactively develop and maintain a pipeline of corporate and High Net Worth Individual (HNWI) clients, aligned with the Bank’s strategic objectives and risk appetite. Identify and originate new business opportunities through internal networks, the wider Group ecosystem, and professional connections. Lead client meetings, presentations, and networking activities to support client acquisition and business growth. Prepare tailored proposals and contribute to pipeline tracking, reporting, and performance monitoring.
• Client Relationship Management: Manage and grow a portfolio of corporate and HNWI clients, acting as a key point of contact. Build strong client relationships through regular engagements, reviews, and a clear understanding of client needs. Identify and execute cross-selling opportunities across lending, trade finance, transactional banking, and wealth management solutions. Support the delivery of a high-quality, client-centric banking experience.
• Wealth Solutions & Advisory Support: Facilitate client access to a range of financial solutions, including deposits, liquidity management, foreign exchange, and investment products. Work closely with the Head of Wealth Management and authorised specialists in London to support the delivery of investment advisory and other specialised services. Identify client needs and coordinate referrals to appropriate internal teams and partners. Provide relationship & administrative support in delivering wealth solutions, in line with regulatory requirements.
• Credit & Transaction Support: Support in structuring and preparing credit applications, including credit approval memoranda and supporting documentation. Assist in originating and managing buy-to-let mortgage opportunities. Collaborate with Credit Analysts to gather financial data and relevant client information. Ensure all credit files and facility documentation are accurate, current, and properly maintained.
• Onboarding & Regulatory Compliance: Manage client onboarding processes, ensuring full compliance with KYC, AML, and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) requirements. Liaise with Compliance and onboarding teams to ensure timely and accurate account setup. Identify and escalate any irregularities in client documentation or records. Adhere to FCA and PRA requirements, as well as internal policies and training obligations. Adhere to the Bank’s Conduct Rules and complete all mandatory training within required timelines.
• Operations & Risk Management: Conduct regular reviews of client accounts to identify and mitigate operational risks. Support transaction processing, including payment verifications and client enquiries. Coordinate with internal departments (e.g., Payments, Trade Finance, IT, Customer Services) to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Reporting & Administration: Contribute to management reports, including pipeline updates, portfolio performance, and loan maturity schedules. Participate in team and departmental meetings, including preparing minutes and presenting performance updates where required. Maintain accurate records and documentation in line with internal policies.

Skills and Experience Required

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience within banking or a financial institution.
• Strong knowledge of KYC, AML, and onboarding processes.
• Demonstrated ability to build and grow a client portfolio through internal and external networks.
• Experience in deal origination (corporate lend and buy-to-let mortgage), credit structuring and financial reports is advantageous.
• Understanding of trade finance products and transactions is desirable.
• Strong understanding of UK regulatory requirements within a wealth management context.

Core Competencies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Numerical and analytical aptitude.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across diverse teams.
• Additional language skills are an advantage.