Principal Banker – SME Finance & Development

About the role

The Principal Banker will lead and contribute to the design, structuring, execution and monitoring of SME finance projects within the SME Finance & Development (F&D) Group. Reporting to country management, the role combines senior project leadership with business development and client relationship responsibilities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the structuring, negotiation and execution of SME financing transactions, working closely with clients, authorities and internal units.
• Manage project teams, supervise junior staff and ensure high‑quality due‑diligence processes.
• Oversee the preparation of internal memoranda, board reports and ensure compliance with bank policies and timelines.
• Monitor portfolio performance, assess value creation and support policy‑dialogue initiatives.
• Contribute to pipeline development, client management and the delivery of advisory services under the Advice for Small Businesses programme.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in project finance, SME lending or related banking activities.
• Proven ability to lead multi‑disciplinary project teams and mentor junior staff.
• Strong client‑facing skills with a track record of business development and stakeholder engagement.
• Understanding of risk‑sharing mechanisms, supply‑chain finance and development‑oriented financing solutions.

Required skills