Credit Officer

The anticipated salary range for this role is between $78,000.00 and $230,000.00. The specific salary offered to an applicant will be based on their individual qualifications, experiences, and an analysis of the current compensation paid in their geography and the market for similar roles at the time of hire. The role may also be eligible for an annual discretionary incentive award. In addition to cash compensation, SMBC offers a competitive portfolio of benefits to its employees. Role Description SMBC is seeking a Credit Officer to cover Commercial Real Estate. Review and challenge of credit applications submitted by the front office and the preparation / presentation of executive summaries and recommendations to the management of the Credit Department. Cover a portfolio of Commercial Real Estate loans. This includes non-recourse CRE loans (construction, transitional, stabilized, note-on-note, etc.) secured by physical real estate collateral as well as unsecured Corporate Commercial Real Estate loans (term loans, revolvers, and related financial products). Candidates will need to be able to analyze borrowers with complex capital structures. Understand the importance of the unique market / submarket dynamics associated with the location of collateral. The Commercial Real Estate portfolio covers all major asset types in all major US markets. Analyze and review the portfolio, including but not limited to, obligor credit risk, projections, transaction background, deal structure, facility terms and conditions, US regulatory classification, profitability, and relationship strategy. Responsibilities Analyze various elements of credit risk and transaction specifics, primarily for commercial real estate obligors, and provide an effective review and challenge to the front office (line 1). Evaluate the underwritten cash flow assumptions / projections and prepare and assess relevant downside scenarios. Prepare written executive summaries/comments of credit applications submitted from the front office and present to the management of the Credit Department. Engage with front office to assist with due diligence and structuring, identify key credit risks and main credit concerns and challenge assumptions prior to formal credit submission. Research the unique dynamics of different markets and submarkets to proactively identify potential risks. Coordinate the credit approval process by liaising between front office and management of the Credit Department. Provide feedback and guidance, as necessary, to ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures standards. Monitor and supervise problem assets including classified loans and present memorandum/reports to management. Contribute to portfolio review, loan reviews and pass watch or any special credit reviews. Manage and document compliance with internal policy, procedure and US regulatory requirements in credit memos. Stay informed about relevant regulations and industry best practices. Work on other credit related projects as assigned. Qualifications and Skills Minimum 5+ years relevant work experience preferably within credit risk (formal credit training preferred, second line of defense). Experience and knowledge of commercial real estate industry. Prior experience interacting with US Regulators (Fed, OCC or FDIC) preferred. Ability to adapt to SMBC’s credit philosophy and risk appetite. Critical thinking to understand factors impacting portfolio creditworthiness such as economic downturn, market volatility, industry disruptions or changes in interest rates, and ability to analyze a vast and complex amount of information and quickly render credit decisions. Risk sensitivity and ability to steer decisions through discussions with the business units. Ability to manage significant deal volume in a fast-paced environment and analyze credit application and prepare written summary in a short timeframe and in a multitasking environment. Strong organizational, oral, and written communication skills, with ability to communicate effectively with all levels of support and business partners. Undergraduate degree in Finance, Business Administration or related fields. MBA/CFA or other professional qualification highly preferred.