Credit Risk Specialist

Sterling Search Partners is helping a Birmingham client with its search for a Credit Risk Specialist. The Credit Risk Specialist is responsible for assessing, managing, and resolving distressed or non-performing loans in a way that minimizes risk to the organization. This role involves close collaboration with internal teams, clients, legal, and external parties to restructure and recover outstanding debt. The specialist will focus on negotiating terms, identifying solutions, and making recommendations to the senior management team regarding workout strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

Loan Workout Management:

• Evaluate and manage distressed and non-performing loans, ensuring the best possible outcome for both the client and the financial institution.
• Collaborate with loan officers, risk management teams, and clients to understand the nature of loan issues and develop action plans.
• Identify potential options for restructuring, refinancing, or other workout solutions.
• Ensure that loan modifications comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Risk Assessment & Reporting:

• Assess the credit risk associated with non-performing loans and develop recovery strategies.
• Monitor loan performance and provide updates to senior management on the status of workout strategies.
• Provide regular reports on workout activity, outcomes, and risks.

Negotiation and Resolution:

• Lead negotiations with borrowers and other stakeholders to resolve issues in a way that protects the financial institution's interests.
• Evaluate the feasibility of restructuring deals, including modifications to repayment terms, forbearance agreements, or other forms of relief.
• Work with legal teams to enforce and protect the bank’s rights, including potential litigation if necessary.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management:

• Collaborate with credit risk teams, compliance, and legal departments to ensure that workouts are structured properly and within regulatory frameworks.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients to encourage transparency and collaboration in the workout process.
• Work closely with external agencies such as debt collectors, lawyers, and asset managers when needed.

Asset Recovery:

• Develop strategies for asset recovery, including the liquidation of collateral or other assets tied to non-performing loans.
• Work with external specialists (e.g., appraisers, auction houses) to facilitate the sale or recovery of assets.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure all workout actions and decisions are documented properly and in line with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of loan modifications, restructurings, and repayments.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or certifications (e.g., CFA, FRM) is a plus.

• Experience:
• 2 plus years of experience in credit risk management, workout, or restructuring.
• Strong knowledge of credit risk processes and regulatory requirements.
• Experience negotiating debt restructuring and managing distressed loan portfolios.