Trade Finance Document Analyst - Document Checker (Penang)

Job Overview

• The Specialist in Document Examination is tasked with the independent, compliant, and timely management of various segments within the export Letter of Credit (L/C) process, adhering to the operational procedures, guidelines, policies, practices, code of conduct, and standards established by the Company/Group.
• It is essential to develop a strong understanding of UCP, ISBP, Incoterms, and the latest updates regarding Letters of Credit, along with relevant ICC publications, opinions, and position papers.
• The role requires the meticulous examination of documents, managing correspondence related to documentation, and forwarding any queries regarding discrepancies to the appropriate TSC personnel.
• Clarifying document discrepancies with the opening or presenting bank is crucial, as is initiating a timely response to these banks when necessary to safeguard our clients' interests.
• Any lapses in document examination and processing must be escalated to the respective Team Head for close monitoring.
• Ensuring that productivity targets are met efficiently and that processing turnaround times adhere to the standards set within the area of responsibility is a key expectation.
• Fostering teamwork within the unit, department, and organization is vital at all times.
• Compliance with the bank's requirements concerning AML, KYC, and reputational risk is a fundamental aspect of daily activities (first level check).

Key Responsibilities

• Examine documents in accordance with approval authorities, with amount decisions potentially made by the Team Lead or Team Head.
• Prepare dispatch letters that include a detailed specification of discrepancies in CoDOKA.
• When necessary, coordinate the resolution of discrepancies with the TSC or the opening bank, ideally utilizing knowledge of regional specifics for effective handling.
• Engage Support Compliance when facing system-induced segregations or if any potential compliance violations are suspected.

Performance Metrics:

• Meet the processing turnaround standards as defined in the Service Level Agreement between the processing unit and clients.
• Achieve or surpass productivity standards while demonstrating processing efficiency and output accuracy.
• Assist in the implementation of initiatives led by Management and the Company/Group.
• Propose ideas for process and workflow improvements to Management.

Educational Background:

A university degree or a diploma from a Commercial School is preferred.

Specialized Knowledge:

• Understanding of national and international transaction management and documentary business.
• Familiarity with country-specific regulations.
• Knowledge of business principles, operational guidelines, and relevant rules, particularly those outlined in the current UCP.
• Proficient in English, with an additional foreign language (French, Spanish) being advantageous.
• Completion of commercial training (e.g., banking) is beneficial.
• Acquaintance with common rules and standards (e.g., UCP, ISBP, Incoterms, URR) is a plus.
• Strong proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Additional language skills are preferred.
• Awareness of country-specific characteristics is a benefit.
• Proficient in the use of the MS Office Suite.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong analytical abilities.
• Teamwork orientation.
• Capability to thrive in a deadline-driven environment.
• Flexibility for shift work as needed.
• Enthusiasm for working in a dynamic and evolving organization.
• A keen interest in developing new processes.
• A strong aptitude for learning.
• Willingness to engage in on-the-job training.

Qualifications and Skills

• The candidate must possess at least a Bachelor's Degree, Post Graduate Diploma, or Professional Degree in Finance, Accountancy, Banking, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required for this role.
• Essential Skills: Proficient command of the English language, both spoken and written.
• Must be well-versed in UCP, ISBP, Incoterms, URR, and the latest updates on Letters of Credit, including relevant ICC publications, opinions, and position papers.
• Familiarity with country-specific characteristics is preferred.
• Ideally suited for a Senior Executive specializing in Banking/Financial Services or a related field.
• Preference for candidates who hold a Certified Documentary Credit Specialist (CDCS) qualification.