Lending Manager, Strategy & Business Development

Job description

Job Description Key Responsibilities: Framework & Strategy Design and implement effective lending operating models that address crucial processes such as origination, underwriting, servicing, and collections across Malaysia and prospective Southeast Asian markets. Develop detailed Shariah-compliant and conventional product blueprints, policy manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that adhere to the regulatory standards set forth by BNM, OJK, MAS, and AAOIFI, ensuring alignment with local market requirements. Collaborate closely with Risk & Data teams to create and refine data-driven credit scoring models, successfully embedding them within our core lending platform for enhanced decision-making. Lead the annual strategic planning process, driving profit and loss forecasting and capital allocation across all lending verticals to guarantee sustainable growth and profitability. Product Management Oversee the complete product lifecycle from the initial discovery phase through to launch, encompassing essential activities such as market research, Business Requirement Document (BRD) and Product Requirement Document (PRD) preparation, user-story development, backlog prioritization, user acceptance testing (UAT), and ongoing post-launch optimization. Drive revenues by championing a customer-centric approach to design, artfully balancing the need for rapid market entry with enduring governance standards and operational integrity. Partnerships and Business Development Proactively identify, negotiate, and finalize strategic distribution partnerships with key players in the e-commerce sector, aggregators, microfinance institutions (MFIs), and cooperatives to expand our reach. Drive revenue generation by enabling partner channels, facilitating merchant onboarding, and executing impactful cross-selling campaigns that bolster growth. Deliver engaging solution demonstrations, articulate financial proposals, and present tailored credit structures to C-suite executives, effectively showcasing the value of our offerings. Stakeholder and Governance Serve as the primary liaison to the internal Shariah Committee and esteemed external scholars, diligently coordinating product certification processes to maintain compliance and enhance credibility. Work closely with the Finance team to develop robust funding structures, implement securitization strategies, and plan for liquidity to support business functions effectively. Prepare comprehensive board packs, formal regulator submissions, and insightful investor updates, presenting a clear picture of portfolio performance and strategic initiatives. Compliance and Risk Management Ensure strict compliance with all relevant lending regulations, credit policies, and internal risk appetites. Stay updated on industry best practices and regulatory requirements (e.g., MCOB rules, BSA/AML, KYC, TILA, RESPA, FCRA, ECOA, SAFE Act). Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with lending activities. Leadership Mentor and guide analysts and associates, instilling best practices in agile delivery, credit risk management, governance, compliance, and effective partnership management to foster professional development. Cultivate a dynamic performance culture rooted in compliance, data ethics, and deep customer empathy, ensuring that these values permeate every aspect of the team’s operations. Requirements A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in the fintech or digital banking sector, with at least 2 years specifically focused on digital lending products, demonstrating a deep understanding of market dynamics. A proven track record in successfully launching or scaling credit products such as Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), micro-loans, SME financing, or consumer installment loans, showcasing an entrepreneurial mindset. Strong experience in sales and business development, including the ability to negotiate complex B2B or channel partnerships that drive mutual growth. A solid grounding in both conventional and Islamic finance, along with a clear understanding of principles such as Murabaha, Tawarruq, Bai’ al Inah, and Kafalah, enables robust product development. A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Engineering, or a related field is essential; additional qualifications such as CFA, FRM, MBA, or CPIF (Islamic Finance) will be viewed favorably. -A thorough understanding of credit analytics, profit and loss management, and the regulatory frameworks applicable in the region (BNM, MAS, OJK, AAOIFI) is essential for the successful execution of responsibilities. -Practical product management experience, including familiarity with agile methodologies, Jira, SQL/analytics, and API-first architecture, is crucial for driving innovation and efficiency. Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills are required, with the ability to effectively engage with regulators, investors, and Shariah boards to advocate for our strategic goals. Regional experience within Southeast Asia and fluency in English are required; proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia is advantageous, as it enhances communication capabilities across diverse markets. Preferred Skills & Experience: Experience with digital lending platforms and fintech innovations. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks specific to [mention specific region/country, e.g., Malaysia, APAC, etc.]. Proven ability to lead teams through periods of change and growth. Strong presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely.