Credit Analyst
Controller Job Description
The responsibilities of the credit analyst include analyzing credit data and financial information of persons or companies that are applying for credit or loans to determine the risk that the bank, or other lending or credit-granting institution will not recoup funds loaned. The level of risk is then used to determine if a loan or line of credit will be granted, and if so, the terms of the loan, including interest rate. Credit analysts will prepare reports based upon their findings to help make decisions on lending and creditworthiness.
They are adaptable, confident, reliable and motivated graduates with strong time management skills, a very good eye for detail and the ability to work effectively under pressure. Excellent IT, analytical, numerical, interpersonal, communication, problem-solving and teamworking skills are also helpful.
Qualifications in business studies, management, statistics, finance, mathematics, accounting or economics can be helpful, as can an MBA or similar postgraduate/professional qualification. Achieving chartered status by undertaking the Chartered Finance Analyst qualification with the CFA Institute is advised to aid your career prospects.
Typical duties of a Controller
• Evaluating clients’ credit data and financial statements in order to determine the degree of risk involved in lending money to them
• Preparing reports about the degree of risk in lending money to clients
• Analyzing client records and using the data to recommend payment plans
• Conferring with credit associations and references to exchange credit information on clients
• Evaluating the financial status of clients by producing financial ratios through computer programs
• Filling out loan applications and including the credit analysis and loan request summaries, then submitting these loan applications to loan committees for their approval
• Helping supply chain and sales and marketing departments in managing financial orders to help them control credit exposure, make payments on time, and reduce the risk of customer disputes
• Conferring with clients to verify their financial/credit transactions and to resolve their complaints
Skills:
• Strong proficiency in MS Office and general computer use
• Ability to effectively manage competing deadlines for projects in a high-pressure work environment, with varying degrees of supervision
• Strong attention to detail and ability to notice discrepancies in data
• Impeccable understanding of financial statements, ratios, and concepts
Qualifications: Finance, Accounting, or other related fields