Credit Officer Community Microfinance Program

Scope of Position

The Credit Officer, Community Microfinance Programs administers a portfolio which consist of micro and small business enterprise, and education training loans. The incumbent will provide credit quality assessments by evaluating and recommending qualified loan applicants through the underwriting process. The Credit Officer will Strengthen the member relationship by providing financial solutions through products, services, advice and education and where appropriate refer to the retail branches to further assist the member/client. Proactive involvement in business development will be expected, for the purpose of generating and retaining business from existing members and building new business. The Credit Officer will act as a subject matter expert for all the retail network as relates to Community Microfinance Programs.

Major Responsibilities

Contributes to the growth and on-going management of the Microfinance and Community Account portfolio:

• Sources, receives, investigates, and analyze request for microfinancing from a variety of sources, including Community Loan Funds, Business Development Centers, Government, Social Agencies and Retail Branches
• Makes recommendations to the Manager, Community Microfinance for micro financing credit
• Manages micro loan recipient relationships and needs through good sound business knowledge and assessing business plans and financial statements
• Delivers Alterna's credit, investment and other products and services to both existing micro loan recipients and potential new members by assessing their specific needs and identifying appropriate solutions, either through referrals to appropriate service provider internal and/ or external
• Present seminars on behalf of Alterna to inform and educate small business entrepreneurs on credit solutions
• Prepares and presents loan summary recommendation which includes all appropriate supporting documentation, underwriting review, credit analysis and evaluation, and clear, concise, and unequivocal recommendations
• Prepares loan agreements and account documentation in accordance with Micro Loan Policies, Procedures, and Policies
• Co-ordinates and or prepares the account opening for loan disbursement
• Manages the administration of the micro loans, through superior knowledge of the banking system
• Manages and monitors the performance of micro loans over the loan term
• Design and prepare data analysis reporting forms
• Supports retail branch staff as a subject matter expert as relates to Community Microfinance Programs
• Assist the Manager, Community Microfinance with Business Development initiatives
• Effectively refer business to the retail branch network

Expectations / Outcomes

• Superior service to members
• Growth of the Alterna Savings micro loan portfolio through the opening of new accounts, servicing of existing ones, the quality of credit decisions and the reduction in delinquent rates
• Internal referrals and cross selling opportunities will be met and exceeded
• A high level of support to staff within the retail network

Contacts

• Current and prospective micro and small business owners
• Entrepreneurial and Newcomer Centres
• Members of Community Loan Funds
• Members of the local Business Community
• Retail branches and other departments and staff within Alterna

Qualifications

Educations / Certifications Experience

• Post secondary education at the Community College/University level in a related business discipline
• Minimum 2- 3 years experience in a similar role in a financial institution ideally in a retail, commercial or community account role
• Knowledge of Retail and/or Small Business credit granting is considered a strong asset
• Bilingual (English & French) considered an asset

Knowledge / Skill

• Sound knowledge of various computer applications including Excel, Word
• Knowledge and understanding of Community Economic Development
• Strong financial background - ability to understand basic financial statements

Competencies

• Ability to thoroughly analyze situations solve problems and make informed and supported decisions
• Ability to utilize professional and tactful interpersonal skills to facilitate resolution to member issues or concerns
• Ability to communicate effectively with management, employees and members/clients, both written and verbally
• Ability to exercise tact, initiative, discretion, and judgement
• Ability to make effective presentations
• Results oriented with the ability to work under pressure, on numerous tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Ability to work effectively with others, demonstrating dependability, adaptability, and a willingness to take direction as required
• Willingness to pursue continuous learning opportunities and skills development
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment

About Alterna Savings

Alterna Savings and Credit Union Limited (Alterna) has delivered The Good in Banking^® for over 115 years creating financial services that transform lives for the better, all while giving back to our community. Alterna is made up of Alterna Savings and Credit Union Limited and its wholly owned subsidiary, Alterna Bank.

Alterna is the first full-service, member-owned cooperative financial institution outside Quebec, sharing its expertise with over 210,000 members through a network comprised of 40 branches across Ontario, a call centre and multiple digital channels. Members and customers also benefit from an industry-leading online brokerage and investment management services.

To learn more about Alterna Savings, please visit alterna.ca, X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Working at Alterna Savings

We are incredibly proud of our corporate culture, embodying our core values: Collaboration, Integrity, and Respect, where everyone works together towards a common goal; the financial wellbeing of our employees, members, and customers. This commitment has earned us several prestigious employer awards, including the National Capital Region's Top Employers award for eight years running.

* We appreciate all applicants; however, preference will be given to candidates who most closely meet the qualifications, key skills, and competencies outlined above.

* Alterna is compliant with the Ontarians with Disabilities Act and our team strives to provide an accessible accommodation experience. If you have a disability and require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment Team and let us know how we can accommodate you.