Description

Senior Lending Manager - REMOTE Role

Northreach is a dynamic recruitment agency that connects businesses with top talent across Financial Services and Investment sectors. We specialise in delivering a seamless recruitment experience for both clients and candidates, supporting growth, innovation, and long-term career development.

A well-established and growing UK investment fund is seeking an experienced Lending Associate / Relationship Manager to support its expanding SME lending portfolio focused on high-growth businesses across Scotland and the wider UK.

Role Purpose

To originate, assess, and convert SME lending opportunities across the UK, building strong introducer relationships and supporting responsible lending to underserved businesses. The role combines business development, credit analysis, and deal structuring, contributing directly to regional economic growth and access to finance.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and develop high-quality SME lending opportunities through brokers, intermediaries, and regional business networks
• Build and maintain a strong, active pipeline of lending opportunities, ensuring timely progression of applications
• Undertake detailed credit analysis and assess affordability, risk, and repayment capacity
• Structure lending facilities in line with internal credit policy and risk appetite
• Prepare, write, and present clear and well-reasoned credit proposals for approval
• Deliver a high standard of service to SMEs, introducers, and key stakeholders throughout the lending process
• Support continuous improvement of lending processes, credit standards, and operational efficiency
• Contribute to wider organisational objectives focused on SME access to finance and regional economic impact

Candidate Profile

Essential Experience & Skills

• Background in SME lending, commercial banking, business banking, or alternative finance
• Strong credit assessment and financial analysis capability
• Proven ability to write and present credit papers or lending proposals
• Established network of brokers, intermediaries, or regional business introducers
• Experience managing a live pipeline and progressing deals from enquiry to completion
• Strong relationship management skills with a self-starter mindset

Desirable Experience

• Experience with cashflow-based lending or unsecured/partially secured lending structures
• Understanding of SME funding challenges and regional finance gaps
• Interest in purpose-led lending, social impact, or regional economic development