Loan Processing Officer

Job Title: Loan Processing OfficerLocation: FreetownOrganization: Street Child of Sierra LeoneReports to: Director of SustainabilityEmployment Type: Full-timeORGANIZATION BACKGROUNDStreet Child of Sierra Leone (SCOSL) is a local Non-Governmental Organization promoting the right to education and child protection for children in the most remote communities in Sierra Leone. We believe that every child deserves the right to live in a safe place, secured home and above all, have the chance to receive quality education. As an organization, our key focus is helping children into schools and ensuring that they stay there.

For those that have no access to education, we work towards creating access in some of the most remote parts of the country, ensuring that no child is left behindJob Summary: The Loan Processing Officer (LPO) will play a crucial role in Street Child's lending process, acting as the link between loan applicants and Street Child's Pay Day Loans Approval Committee. The LPO's primary responsibility is to ensure that loan applications are complete, accurate, and compliant with all relevant regulations and internal policies, facilitating a transparent, smooth, effective, and efficient loan approval process.

This will also involve reviewing financial documents, communicating with relevant stakeholders, and adhering to strict deadlines. Key Responsibilities:

Client Interaction and Application ManagementThe LPO will serve as the primary contact for loan applicants, guiding them through the entire application process and addressing inquiriesConduct interviews with applicants to understand their financial needs, employment status, salary, assets, and debtsAssist clients in finding suitable loan products for their needs and explain the terms and requirements of each loan typeMaintain effective communication with clients, providing updates on the status of their application, and reminding successful loan recipients of payment obligationsDocumentation and VerificationCollect, prepare, and organise all necessary documentation for the loan package, ensuring accuracy and completenessReview loan applications, helping applicants to correct any potential errors and ensuring all sections are completePerform credit background checks and evaluate applicants' credit historiesVerify applicant information, including employment history, income, and assets, often through direct communication or third-party verificationCollaboration and ComplianceCollaborate closely with Business Support Managers and Street Child's Pay Day Loans Approval Committee to determine applicant eligibility and facilitate the loan approval processSubmit accurate and complete loan files to the Street Child Pay Day Loans Approval Committee for review and approval or denialEnsure all loan processes comply with national lending regulations, as well as internal Street Child policiesMaintain comprehensive records for auditing and reporting purposesOperational EfficiencyInput and update loan information in the organisation's database or loan processing software, such as CommCareMonitor loan application progress and manage deadlines to ensure timely processing and closingIdentify and resolve issues that may delay loan approval, coordinating with other parties as neededStrive to meet the organisation's targets for processed loans and maintain a low error rate to ensure accuracyQualifications:

Education: Education and ExperienceA Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Entrepreneurship, or a related fieldProven experience as a Loan Processor or in a similar role within the microfinance industry, typically 2-3 yearsSuccessful completion of a Microfinance Certification programme, such as Certified Contract Loan Processor (CCLP), or Certified Master Loan Processor (CMLP)Technical ProficiencyWorking knowledge of loan origination and financial management systems is essentialProficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) is requiredFamiliarity with banking computer software and the ability to accurately process and record large amounts of dataCore CompetenciesAttention to detail:

meticulous in reviewing documents and identifying discrepanciesCommunication SkillsExcellent verbal and written communication for interacting with Clients, Business Support Managers, and the Street Child Pay Day Loans Approval CommitteeTime ManagementAbility to prioritise tasks, manage multiple loan files simultaneously, and meet tight deadlinesAnalytical SkillsHave the capability to assess financial documents, evaluate creditworthiness, and understand complex loan applicationsCustomer ServiceCandidate must have a strong focus on providing remarkable customer service and building lasting client relationshipsIntegrity and ConfidentialityAbility to handle sensitive financial information with utmost integrity and discretionProblem-Solving SkillsAbility to identify and resolve issues related to loan applications and documentationTeamworkAbility to work collaboratively with Business Support Managers, Street Child Pay Day Loans Approval Committee, and other team membersKnowledge of RegulationsCandidate must have in-depth understanding of loan application processes, relevant rules, and other legal regulationsPersonal Attributes:

High integrity and commitment to the mission of SCoSLStrong leadership and team management abilitiesAbility to adjust to a multicultural setting and changing circumstancesApplication Process: Interested candidates should send their resume and a cover letter with their qualifications and experience to this link. SCoSL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all individuals to apply. We aim to create an inclusive workplace for everyone. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Closing date for the receipt of applications is 29th August 2025 WOMEN ARE HIGHLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY