At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage trade finance operations, including letters of credit and payment processing.
- Company: Join Zenith Bank (UK), a leading bank with a strong reputation for innovation and performance.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, learning opportunities, and a supportive work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving trade between Nigeria and Europe with impactful services.
- Qualifications: A first degree is required; CDCS qualification is a plus.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract with a salary up to £55,000.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 77000 £ per year.
About Us: Zenith Bank (UK) Limited (ZBUK) is a subsidiary of Zenith Bank PLC, the most profitable bank in Nigeria with an established trajectory of superlative performance, as well a strong pedigree of innovation, resilience, and market dominance. On an annual basis, Zenith Bank PLC amasses a string of notable awards; one of the most recent being listed as the sole Nigerian brand on the World’s top 100 companies in 2023 by the World Finance Magazine. Zenith Bank (UK) Limited (ZBUK) was set up with a clear strategy to leverage trade and investment flows between Nigeria and Europe, by providing intermediary banking services and facilities for trade-related working capital and capital expenditure. Zenith Bank recognizes the importance of leveraging a highly skilled workforce to achieve its strategic and operational goals. The bank is committed to providing an environment that is conducive for effective performance by availing all staff the necessary learning opportunity. We value the well-being of our staff and we encourage them to strike a balance between their work and personal lives, thereby creating a healthy atmosphere for personal development and career success. With the introduction of new services here in the UK and our unparalleled knowledge of business with Africa, our 5 year strategy ensures “Controlled Growth” as we aim to become the Bank of choice for businesses wishing to transact in the African continent.
Responsibilities:
- Issuance and checking of letters of credit and guarantees
- Processing of payments under confirmed, unconfirmed Letters of credit
- Confidence in relating with other corresponding banks to solve corresponding bank issues
- Confidence in relating with other banks in the establishment of RMA keys
- Knowledge of loan booking and loan administration
- Processing of clean Reimbursement
- Processing payment under LC discounting
- Reconciliation of all LC cash collateral accounts and Suspense accounts
- Processing of Bill for collection payment and sending advices to clients
- Review and investigation of Nostro reconciliation to clear outstanding items
- Advising debit advices to clients after payments
- Knowledge of Letters of credit and LC and LC amendment
- Confidence in advising letters of credit
- Knowledge of document checking
- Handling payments’ queries and investigations from clients and correspondent banks
- Ensuring that the Bank’s procedures on Anti-Money Laundering are followed at all times
- Authorising payments
- Processing and or authorising of LC Refinances
- Other responsibilities assigned
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Good Knowledge of use of Excel and MS-word
- Good time management
- Good team player
- Knowledge of SWIFT
- Knowledge of UCP600
- Accuracy and efficiency
- Analytical and problem solving skill
- Attention to details
- Sound Knowledge of Letters of credit
- Possess a first degree
- CDCS qualification is an added advantage
This is a 12 month fixed term contract paying up to £55,000 based on experience.
Trade Finance Officer employer: Zenith Bank (UK) Limited.
Contact Detail:
Zenith Bank (UK) Limited. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Finance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific trade finance products and services offered by Zenith Bank. Understanding their approach to letters of credit and guarantees will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the trade finance sector, especially those who have experience with banks that operate between Nigeria and Europe. This can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and regulations in trade finance, particularly those affecting the UK and Nigerian markets. Being well-informed will show your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising your responses to scenarios involving problem-solving in trade finance. Highlight your analytical skills and attention to detail, as these are crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Finance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Trade Finance Officer. Familiarise yourself with terms like letters of credit, loan administration, and anti-money laundering procedures, as these will be crucial in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your knowledge of trade finance, communication skills, and any experience with Excel or SWIFT, as these are key for this role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the bank. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your analytical skills and attention to detail, and explain how you can contribute to Zenith Bank's goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a role in trade finance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zenith Bank (UK) Limited.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Trade Finance
Make sure to brush up on your understanding of letters of credit, guarantees, and the UCP600 guidelines. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your expertise and suitability for the role.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for this position, prepare examples from your past experiences where you effectively communicated with clients or resolved issues with banks.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've used analytical and problem-solving skills in previous roles. Consider preparing a specific example where you successfully reconciled accounts or handled complex payment queries.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Time Management
As a Trade Finance Officer, you'll need to work well within a team and manage your time effectively. Share instances where you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal or managed multiple tasks efficiently.