Assistant Manager – Credit Risk Analysis

Rafiki Microfinance Bank is seeking a results-driven and analytically sharp Assistant Manager – Credit Risk Analysis to lead the Credit Risk Analysis function within the Credit Administration Unit. Reporting directly to the Head of Credit, this role sits at the intersection of risk management and business growth, ensuring that credit decisions are sound, compliant, and aligned with the Bank's risk appetite.

The ideal candidate will provide hands-on leadership to a team of Credit Risk Analysts and Officers, drive portfolio quality, and deliver high-quality credit insights that support informed decision-making at management and board levels. This is a senior contributor role ideal for a seasoned credit professional ready to step into a people-management capacity within a dynamic microfinance environment.

• Review, analyse, and recommend credit applications across retail, SME, commercial, and corporate segments in line with internal credit policy and CBK Prudential Guidelines.
• Evaluate borrower creditworthiness, repayment capacity, cash flow projections, collateral adequacy, and overall risk profiles.
• Review and approve credit proposals submitted by Credit Risk Officers, providing guidance on structuring complex credit facilities.
• Ensure full compliance of all credit applications with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Support business units in designing credit structures that balance customer needs with appropriate risk mitigation.
• Monitor portfolio quality post-disbursement and recommend interventions to minimise defaults and improve asset quality.
• Analyse portfolio trends, sector performance, and emerging industry risks, providing actionable recommendations.
• Support strategies aimed at improving Portfolio at Risk (PAR), collections performance, and overall credit health.
• Prepare and review periodic credit risk reports for Management, EXCOM, Board Committees, CBK, and other stakeholders.
• Develop presentations and management information reports on credit risk performance and emerging portfolio concerns.
• Liaise with Branch Managers, Business Development, Finance, Legal, Compliance, and Internal Audit on credit-related matters.
• Participate in regulatory examinations, internal audits, and credit risk reviews.
• Supervise, mentor, coach, and conduct performance reviews for Credit Risk Officers and Analysts.
• Allocate work assignments, monitor team productivity, and ensure timely completion of credit appraisals.
• Foster a culture of risk awareness, continuous improvement, and professionalism within the team.
• Execute any other duties as assigned by senior management.

• Demonstrate ability to appraise and structure credit facilities for retail, SME, commercial, and corporate clients with accuracy and commercial judgment.
• Apply deep knowledge of CBK Prudential Guidelines and credit risk regulatory frameworks in day-to-day credit decisions.
• Lead a team of analysts by setting clear performance expectations, providing coaching, and driving accountability.
• Interpret financial statements, cash flow models, and business plans to assess repayment capacity and creditworthiness.
• Produce high-quality management reports, board papers, and portfolio performance analyses with clear risk commentary.
• Engage confidently with cross-functional stakeholders including Finance, Legal, Compliance, and Branch Networks.
• Minimum of 5 years' progressive experience in credit analysis or credit risk management within a bank or microfinance institution.
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or team leadership role within a credit function.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field; a postgraduate qualification or professional certification (CPA, ACCA, CFA, or equivalent) is an added advantage.
• Proficiency in credit management systems and MS Office tools, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.

Rafiki Microfinance Bank offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Based on Kenyan market benchmarks for mid-to-senior banking credit roles, the estimated monthly gross salary for this position ranges between KES 150,000 – KES 280,000. The Bank also offers a structured benefits package that may include medical insurance, pension contributions, and performance-linked incentives.

Ideal candidate: A credit professional with a strong microfinance or commercial banking background, proven analytical rigour, and demonstrable experience managing credit teams. You are comfortable working with large credit portfolios, generating regulatory reports, and engaging with senior management. You have a track record of improving portfolio quality and building team capability.

Do NOT apply if: You have fewer than 5 years of direct credit risk or credit analysis experience, have no prior experience supervising or leading a credit team, or are unfamiliar with CBK Prudential Guidelines and prudential credit reporting requirements. This role is not entry-level and requires independent decision-making on complex credit matters.

• Prepare an updated CV highlighting your credit risk experience, team leadership responsibilities, and key achievements in portfolio management.
• Write a concise cover letter addressed to the Head of Human Resources at Rafiki Microfinance Bank, explaining your suitability for the Assistant Manager – Credit Risk Analysis role.
• Submit your application through the Rafiki Microfinance Bank official careers portal or the job platform where this vacancy is advertised.
• Ensure your application is submitted before the stated deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.