Head of Credit (SMME)

Build the credit function. Own the decisions. Shape the culture.

My client is a fast-growing, well-funded SMME finance business. They’re looking for a Head of Credit to design, build and run their credit function from the ground up, reporting directly to the CEO.

This is an on-site role.

This isn’t a maintenance role. You’ll be hands-on from day one: writing policy, building processes, underwriting deals and setting the standard for credit decisions in a high-growth lending business.

What you’ll do

• Design and implement the full credit framework, including policies, procedures, approval mandates and governance
• Own credit decisions and build practical, commercially sound underwriting for secured and unsecured SMME lending
• Own portfolio performance end to end: spot emerging risk early and act fast
• Drive risk-based pricing and deal structuring
• Partner with the commercial team so that credit enables growth rather than blocking it
• Build processes that are robust but not bureaucratic, and find chances to automate
• Build and lead a lean, high-performing credit team over time
• What you’ll bring
• 4–8 years in credit leadership, with strong SMME lending exposure
• Hands-on experience in both secured and unsecured lending
• A track record in fast-paced or entrepreneurial environments
• Experience building or improving credit processes (strongly preferred)
• Sharp credit judgement, a commercial mindset and a high bias for action
• Comfort with ambiguity, and the ability to create structure where little exists

Why this role

• A true build-and-own mandate with direct access to the CEO
• A business with a proven client proposition, clear distribution and strong financial backing
• A leadership seat that helps shape strategy and culture during an expansion phase
• A down-to-earth, high-energy team that takes delivery seriously

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