Director of Credit - Project Finance

We're partnered with a global bank who are looking to expand their respective Credit division with a Credit Director – Project Finance will be responsible for overseeing the credit risk assessment and approval process for large-scale project finance transactions across various industries. This role involves close collaboration with front-office teams, structuring complex financing solutions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal risk frameworks.

Credit Risk Assessment & Approval

• Lead the credit risk assessment process for project finance transactions, including reviewing financial models, conducting due diligence, and assessing counterparty risks.
• Evaluate the creditworthiness of borrowers and sponsors, considering sector dynamics and geopolitical risks.
• Approve credit proposals within delegated authority and provide recommendations to senior credit committees.

Structuring & Risk Mitigation

• Work with relationship managers and investment banking teams to structure project finance deals that align with the bank’s risk appetite.
• Identify and recommend risk mitigation strategies, including collateral structuring, credit enhancements, and syndication options.

Portfolio Management & Monitoring

• Oversee the performance of project finance assets, monitoring key risk indicators and ensuring early identification of deteriorating credits.
• Lead periodic credit reviews and stress testing exercises to assess portfolio resilience.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines, including Basel III/IV, IFRS 9, and internal risk policies.

Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership

• Engage with internal stakeholders, including senior management, regulators, and external auditors, to provide insights on credit risk trends.
• Represent the bank in discussions with rating agencies, investors, and syndicate partners.
• Mentor and develop junior credit officers, fostering a strong risk culture within the institution.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 10 of experience in corporate credit risk, with a focus on project finance within a global banking environment.
• Strong knowledge of structured finance, infrastructure lending, and energy financing.
• Expertise in credit analysis, financial modeling, and legal documentation (including term sheets, loan agreements, and security packages).
• Prior experience in managing a large portfolio and leading credit approval processes.
• Advanced degree in Finance, Economics, or related field; CFA, FRM, or MBA preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a deep understanding of financial structures and cash flow forecasting.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound credit decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with experience presenting to credit committees and senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge of global regulatory frameworks (Basel, IFRS 9, and stress testing methodologies).

Preferred Industry Exposure

• Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Oil & Gas, Power, Transport, and PPP (Public-Private Partnership) projects.
• Experience working in international markets, including emerging economies.