About Company
African Bank is a proudly South African bank with a rich history of empowering individuals and communities through accessible financial solutions. We are committed to fostering financial inclusion and helping our customers achieve their economic aspirations. Our mission is to build a better life for all South Africans by offering a range of responsible banking products, including savings, loans, and insurance. We believe in customer-centricity, innovation, and making a tangible difference in the lives of our people. Join us in our journey to uplift communities and drive economic growth across the nation, starting right here in East London.
Job Description
Are you a passionate, results-driven individual with a heart for community development and a knack for financial management? African Bank is seeking a dedicated Microfinance Officer to join our dynamic team in East London, Eastern Cape. This pivotal full-time role focuses on field loan management, directly impacting the economic empowerment of individuals and small businesses within the community. As a Microfinance Officer, you will be the face of African Bank, building strong relationships with clients in their local environments. You will be responsible for the entire loan cycle, from client identification and initial assessment to loan disbursement, monitoring, and collection. This role requires a proactive approach to engaging with potential clients, understanding their unique financial needs, and providing suitable microfinance solutions that align with their capacity for repayment and business growth. You will play a crucial role in assessing creditworthiness, conducting thorough due diligence, and ensuring compliance with all lending policies and procedures. This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to contribute significantly to the financial well-being and entrepreneurial spirit of East London’s vibrant communities. We are looking for an individual who is not only adept at financial analysis but also possesses exceptional interpersonal skills, capable of connecting with diverse groups and fostering trust. If you are an empathetic communicator, a sharp analytical thinker, and possess an unwavering commitment to ethical financial practices, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our mission to uplift lives.
Key Responsibilities
- Proactively identify, recruit, and onboard new microfinance clients within the designated field areas in East London.
- Conduct thorough preliminary assessments of loan applications, including business viability, financial capacity, and character appraisals.
- Educate clients on African Bank's microfinance products, terms, and conditions, ensuring full understanding.
- Manage the entire loan cycle: processing applications, disbursing funds, monitoring loan utilization, and facilitating timely repayments.
- Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with clients through regular field visits and consistent communication.
- Provide financial literacy guidance and business advisory support to clients, helping them optimize their loan usage.
- Ensure strict adherence to African Bank’s lending policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct timely and effective loan collections, managing arrears and proactively addressing potential defaults.
- Prepare accurate and timely reports on loan portfolio performance, client interactions, and market trends.
- Collaborate with branch staff and management to achieve lending targets and contribute to the overall success of the microfinance portfolio.
Required Skills
- Minimum 2 years of experience in microfinance, banking, or a related lending environment.
- Demonstrated strong numerical and analytical skills for credit assessment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse clients.
- Proven sales and client acquisition abilities, with a results-oriented mindset.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications (MS Office Suite).
- Valid South African driver's license and own reliable transport.
- High level of integrity, ethical conduct, and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently in a field-based environment and manage time effectively.
Preferred Qualifications
- A National Diploma or Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
- Prior experience working with underserved communities or small business owners.
- Fluency in Xhosa or other local languages prevalent in East London.
- Knowledge of local market conditions and economic landscape in the Eastern Cape.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive basic salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive medical aid contribution.
- Provident fund contributions.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a leading financial institution.
- Employee wellness programs.
- Contribution to transport costs given the field-based nature of the role.
How to Apply
If you are ready to make a significant impact and join a forward-thinking financial institution, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring how your skills and passion can contribute to our mission.