Unit Head - Credit Control Department

Job description / Role

Role Purpose

The unit manager's role is broadly defined as the ultimate filter in the entire credit control end-to-end approval process, where the exposures undertaken by the bank of its corporate and retail customers are being reviewed and scrutinized for its adequacy and correctness in terms of approvals, adherence to credit policies laid down in the credit and product manuals, and compliance to documentation standards in a centralized environment.

Manage credit documentation and limit management functions whilst ensuring full adherence to stipulated terms and conditions.

Engage in implementing strategic initiatives by the risk management group. Ensure that the credit control department is supported by documented procedures (SOPs), skilled staff, and adequate technological support.

Provide direction and guidance to the staff for effective and efficient operations of the unit.

Key Accountabilities of the Role

• Leadership and supervision: Lead the credit control team, overseeing daily activities to ensure accurate execution of tasks and robust performance.
• Credit documentation: Ensure that all credit documentation adheres to Sharia guidelines and is complete, accurate, and compliant with internal and external regulatory requirements.
• Limit release and monitoring: Oversee credit limits release processes, ensuring timely approvals and monitoring of credit limits and utilization.
• Compliance and risk management: Implement best practices to ensure compliance with Central Bank guidelines, credit policies, and Islamic banking principles.
• Policy development: Create, implement, and review credit control procedures to optimize efficiency and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Audit coordination: Liaise with audit teams to promote transparency and address audit queries related to the credit control department.
• Stakeholder collaboration: Coordinate with internal departments, including business, credit risk, legal, and Sharia, to ensure seamless operations and adherence to credit approval and Islamic banking principles.

Specialist Skills / Technical Knowledge Required for This Role

• Bachelor's degree in finance, banking, business administration, or a related field.
• Deep understanding of Islamic banking principles, UAE banking regulations, and Sharia-compliant credit structures.
• Strong team management and leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Exceptional analytical abilities to monitor credit performance and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Previous Experience

12 to 15 years of banking experience, of which 7+ years of experience in a leadership role in the areas of corporate banking and credit operations, preferably within Islamic banking.