SME Underwriting Lead

The SME Underwriting Lead is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end credit underwriting of SME loan products. This role ensures sound credit decisions, consistent application of credit policy, and a balanced approach to growth and risk. The position works closely with Product, Risk, Sales, and Operations to scale SME lending responsibly.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and manage SME loan underwriting activities, ensuring timely and high-quality credit decisions
- Review and approve SME credit applications within delegated authority limits
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve SME underwriting policies, guidelines, and procedures
- Ensure credit assessments align with risk appetite, regulatory requirements, and business objectives
- Analyze financial statements, cash flows, bank statements, and alternative data for SMEs
- Partner with Risk and Data teams to enhance credit scoring models and decision frameworks
- Monitor portfolio performance and recommend underwriting or policy adjustments as needed
- Provide guidance, coaching, and quality control for underwriters and credit analysts
- Collaborate with Sales and Operations to improve turnaround times and customer experience
- Support audits, regulatory reviews, and internal risk assessments
REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or related field
- 5–8+ years of experience in SME credit underwriting, credit risk, or lending
- Prior experience in fintech, digital lending, or high-growth lending environments is a strong advantage
- Strong understanding of SME financial analysis, credit risk assessment, and loan structures
- Familiarity with automated underwriting tools, credit scoring models, and alternative data sources
- Knowledge of local lending regulations and compliance standards
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Strong credit judgment and analytical thinking
- Ability to balance growth targets with risk discipline
- Leadership and mentoring skills
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Data-driven and process-oriented mindset
- Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving fintech environments