Job Details

Job Description

1.      ABOUT THE ORGANISATION

Our company is a wholly owned Zambian microfinance institution, registered and regulated by the Bank of Zambia, and has been operational since 2019.

To ensure the efficient and effective management of resources through streamlined processes and best practices, we are seeking to recruit a dynamic and results-driven Operations Manager, to be based at our Head Office in Lusaka.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end loan processing and underwriting function, ensuring timely and quality service delivery that meets customer needs and aligns with the company’s strategic objectives.

Reporting Relationships: This role will be reporting to The Chief Executive Officer

2.      ABOUT THE ROLE:

This senior management role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end loan processing, underwriting, branch operations, compliance, and resource management. It involves ensuring efficient loan approvals, regulatory compliance, operational reporting, and performance management. The ideal candidate will provide strategic oversight across branches, maintain internal controls, liaise with regulatory bodies, and drive continuous improvements in operational systems to support the Company’s objectives.

2.1 KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Application Processing.

• Ensure that all loan applications have all pertinent documentation attached as per the Company’s procedures and standards outlined in the Credit Policy. Underwriting (Approval or Denial of Loan Applications).
• Efficiently manage underwriting decisions to lend to reliable customers while protecting the Company’s interests.

Closing and post-closing

• Oversee loan closing and post-closing activities to ensure proper documentation and compliance.

Branches

• Ensure branch managers fully comply with all Company policies and procedures.
• Maintain an adequate system of internal controls and procedures to safeguard the Company’s operations, assets, and data.

Liaison

• Serve as liaison between Fair Choice Finance Limited (FCFL) and the Bank of Zambia to coordinate timely feedback on regulatory issues.

Reports

• Prepare monthly operations reports, submitting them no later than the 15th of the following month.

Management

• Effectively manage human, financial, and other resources to achieve departmental and Company objectives.
• Monitor and report on business risks monthly.

Operational Systems

• Continuously improve operational management systems, processes, and best practices to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.

Compliance

• Ensure the organization’s processes and procedures remain compliant with regulatory and legal requirements.
• Ensure all legal and regulatory documents are filed and monitor adherence to laws and regulations.

Performance Management

• Manage the timely development and implementation of performance management systems to monitor and evaluate staff performance within the department.

3. QUALIFICATIONS

3.1 Academic Qualifications:

• Full Grade 12 School Certificate with credits or better in five (5) O-Level subjects, including English and Mathematics.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a Business-related field, complemented by training in: Project Management, Strategic Risk Management, Competitive Strategy, and Risk Management in Financial Institutions.
• A Master’s Degree will be an added advantage.

3.2 WORK EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of postgraduate work experience is required.
  At least five (5) years must have been served at senior management level.

3.3Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Project (or equivalent project management software), is essential.
• Strong report writing skills, with the ability to produce reports that meet acceptable standards and incorporate clear SWOT analysis.

3.3 Core Competencies and Attributes:

• Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, collaborative, and leadership abilities.
• High emotional and intellectual intelligence, with strong persuasion and debt collection skills.
• Demonstrated tact, courtesy, initiative, and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential matters.
• Adaptable, flexible, and responsive, with the ability to work under minimum supervision and manage urgent requests efficiently and positively.

4. HOW TO APPLY:

Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single PDF file:

• A typed cover letter.
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with three traceable referees, including their full addresses and contact information.
• ZAQA-certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
• Application should be sent via email to [email protected]