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Home Jobs Mombasa Commercial Trade Research Specialist

Commercial Trade Research Specialist

Absa Bank Limited  · Banking / Financial Services

Full Time Mombasa
Mombasa
Deadline: 24 June 2026
Posted June 17, 2026

Job Summary

To deliver expert guidance and assistance in operational management, with the responsibility for cultivating, sustaining, and strengthening operational business relationships by fulfilling predefined objectives in alignment with established standard operating procedures.

We are seeking a motivated and skilled individual to join our team as [Job Title], responsible for performing a variety of tasks including [specific tasks, e.g., managing client accounts, developing marketing strategies, or conducting data analysis]. The ideal candidate will possess [required years] of experience in [relevant field/experience], along with strong [key skills, e.g., communication, problem-solving, or technical abilities]. Proficiency in [specific tools/software, e.g., Microsoft Office, CRM systems, or programming languages] is essential for success in this role. Key responsibilities involve [specific duties, e.g., overseeing project timelines, analyzing financial data, or coordinating team efforts]. Additionally, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to [soft skills, e.g., work independently, collaborate effectively, or meet tight deadlines]. This position offers a competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to fulfill a pivotal role within our organization, the primary objective of which is to [insert primary job purpose here]. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing key responsibilities that include [list key responsibilities here], ensuring alignment with the company’s strategic goals. This position demands a candidate with [required qualifications, skills, or experience], as well as the ability to [additional key competencies]. The ideal applicant will demonstrate proficiency in [specific areas] and exhibit strong problem-solving skills to address complex challenges. Collaboration with cross-functional teams will be essential, as the role requires fostering productive relationships with stakeholders at all levels. Additionally, the candidate must be adept at [specific tasks or duties] while maintaining a keen attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Achieving outstanding business results by collaborating effectively within a team that executes a diverse array of Trade Finance operations and client service functions.

Key Accountabilities

Delivers measurable business outcomes and operational excellence, accounting for 50% of overall performance metrics. Demonstrates consistent ability to execute strategies effectively, achieve key performance indicators, and drive measurable growth. Focuses on optimizing processes, enhancing productivity, and ensuring sustainable results to meet or exceed organizational targets.

Transactional processes involve managing and executing financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards. This includes handling invoices, payments, reconciliations, and reporting, as well as maintaining detailed records and supporting documentation. Additionally, the role requires monitoring transactional workflows to identify discrepancies, mitigate risks, and streamline operations for efficiency and transparency. Proficiency in financial software and strong analytical skills are essential to perform these duties effectively.

Diligently reviewing, processing, and validating trade products—both manually and through electronic systems—according to the established delegated matrix.

Documentary Collections and Bills—encompassing both import and export transactions—are managed through this role.

Documentary credits, commonly known as letters of credit, encompass both import and export transactions, serving as vital financial instruments in global trade. These instruments provide security and assurance to parties engaged in international commerce by guaranteeing payment upon fulfillment of specified conditions. Whether facilitating the purchase of goods from foreign suppliers or ensuring timely receipt of payments for exported products, documentary credits streamline cross-border transactions while mitigating risks associated with non-payment or non-delivery. Proficiency in managing these mechanisms is essential for professionals involved in trade finance, banking, or corporate supply chain operations.

Guarantees Inward and Outward processing is ensured in adherence to established protocols, covering both incoming and outgoing transactions. This responsibility encompasses the verification, documentation, and execution of all guarantee-related activities while maintaining compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.

We are seeking a skilled professional to manage trade loan operations, ensuring seamless execution of financing solutions for clients engaged in international commerce. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in trade finance, with expertise in structuring and processing loans tailored to import/export transactions. Responsibilities include evaluating creditworthiness, mitigating transaction risks, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. Proficiency in financial analysis, documentation review, and relationship management with clients and financial institutions is essential. A bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field, along with relevant certifications, is preferred. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are critical to success in this role.

The position entails processing applications sanctioned by the bank, such as FCC, FCR, IBEX, PANGAEA, CORONA, GEMS, TPS, VPP, OCR, and SFI, as mandated.

Per current International Chamber of Commerce guidelines, the position involves reviewing and verifying Export and Import documentation in accordance with the designated Trade delegation matrix.

The OCR platform is utilized to upload and process Letters of Credit, ensuring thorough document examination.

Ensure all title documents are managed in strict accordance with established bank protocols, which are governed by dual control measures.

Conduct a thorough examination of all completed trade transactions to ensure all necessary documentation and steps are properly finalized prior to archiving.

Conducting thorough sanctions screening and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks in strict accordance with established sanctions policies.

Initiate prompt investigations and resolve customer concerns in adherence to established policy timeframes, ensuring timely and compliant outcomes.

Responsible for accurately recording all customer instructions and contracts within TMW and executing them in accordance with the established Service Level Agreement (SLA).

Verify that all requests are duly authorized, signatures are authenticated, and compliance with international trade regulations is confirmed prior to processing.

All errors must be identified and addressed within the agreed-upon service level agreement (SLA).

Daily reconciliation of liability accounts must be conducted to maintain accuracy and compliance.

Accurately collect income in accordance with the current or approved tariff, and promptly notify the Trade front office team of any delays encountered.

The task involves handling STFC releases in accordance with predetermined schedules.

As required by Finance and FI teams, you will be responsible for overseeing reporting needs to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.

Covering any necessary dealer-related transactions constitutes a key aspect of the role, ensuring seamless interactions and compliance with established protocols. This responsibility demands meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to managing dealer engagements effectively.

Daily execution of FCC, FCR, Qlik View, and Jasper reports is required.

Daily processing of Incoming Swifts, Failed Swifts, Diaries, Memos, Failed Payments, expired deals, pending deals, and COSTCO reports is required.

Monitor and address any reported adverse incidents concerning systems or transactions until they are fully resolved.

Effective oversight of User Acceptance Testing (UAT) execution is essential to ensure prompt completion.

Ensure that all trade documents are franked as and when required.

Responsible for reviewing and authorizing transactions on the Havana and EGP platforms, specifically those involving government-related guarantees.

Conduct a thorough analysis of failed automated guaranteed commission transactions and take appropriate action to resolve discrepancies.

The SFI entries undergo a meticulous process involving uploading, verification, and authorization to ensure accuracy and compliance. This structured workflow guarantees that all submitted information is thoroughly reviewed and approved before finalization.

Delivering impactful services constitutes 20% of this role. The successful candidate will actively engage in service delivery, ensuring high standards are maintained across all client interactions. Responsibilities include executing service plans, resolving client inquiries promptly, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize service outcomes. Exceptional communication and problem-solving skills are essential to address diverse client needs efficiently. A proactive approach to service improvement and a commitment to exceeding client expectations are expected.

Deliver exceptional service to every client, ensuring strict adherence to agreed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) at all times.

Maintain exceptional clarity and professionalism in all verbal and written communications directed at both internal and external clients.

Please record all compliments and complaints in the designated system.

When addressing inquiries or requests, assume full responsibility for ownership, provide insightful suggestions, and deliver constructive resolutions by thoroughly investigating and addressing issues while safeguarding the bank’s reputation.

Overseeing controls constitutes 15% of the role’s responsibilities, ensuring adherence to established policies, procedures, and regulatory standards. This involves monitoring operational effectiveness, identifying potential risks, and implementing corrective measures to mitigate compliance gaps. The position requires meticulous attention to detail to validate that all controls function as intended, maintaining the integrity and security of organizational processes.

Ensure all activities and duties strictly adhere to regulatory obligations, the Enterprise-Wide Risk Management Framework, and internal ABSA Policies and Policy Standards. Identify, assess, and effectively manage risks and risk-related events pertinent to the position.

Ensure strict compliance with the Group IT security policy and the implemented controls when accessing the system.

Ensure strict adherence to operational risk protocols, prioritizing the protection of our personnel, clients, assets, and the integrity of the organization.

Conduct snap inspections promptly to ensure timely evaluations.

The incumbent must guarantee strict compliance with the established matrix structure, ensuring all delegated responsibilities and reporting lines are followed accurately.

Ensure accurate reporting of the department’s productivity levels by consistently updating and verifying daily activities to maintain the correct Management Information (MI).

Identify and promptly report risk issues through the ARMS system to ensure timely escalation.

Before departing, confirm all handover protocols are completed, including updating the key register and submitting the handover certificate.

Driving innovation and facilitating change represent 10% of the role’s primary responsibilities, ensuring continuous improvement in processes and outcomes. This entails actively seeking new methodologies, technologies, and strategies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, the position involves leading and managing change initiatives to adapt seamlessly to evolving business needs and industry trends. Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are essential to successfully implement and sustain these innovations.

Challenge conventional practices and encourage innovative thinking to drive progress. Foster a collaborative and empowering team environment where diverse perspectives thrive. Facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices while offering constructive feedback as needed to support continuous improvement.

Facilitate the successful adoption and implementation of transformative change initiatives to drive organizational progress.

Offer strategic recommendations to the line manager by leveraging an in-depth understanding of the trade value chain, addressing opportunities for enhancement and proposing effective solutions.

Offer dedicated support to the Team Manager to enhance collaboration and efficiency within the Trade Finance department.

Establish and pursue individualized professional growth objectives, ensuring all prescribed steps are fulfilled meticulously.

Diligently seek avenues to enhance personal competencies and broaden professional expertise.

Individual growth opportunities are provided, comprising 5% of overall responsibilities, to support continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Establish project management objectives that align with the bank’s strategic goals and your professional aspirations.

Demonstrating a commitment to continuous growth, this role emphasizes enhancing personal effectiveness through intentional self-improvement while actively recognizing individual strengths and opportunities for development.

Secure regular input on your Personal Development from your direct supervisor and other departmental leaders.

Ensure that all leave requests are accurately recorded in the designated system, specifically Workday, prior to commencing any leave.

Seeking a candidate with a demonstrated proficiency in [specific skill or tool], complemented by a minimum of [X] years of experience in [relevant field]. The ideal applicant will possess a strong foundation in [specific knowledge area], along with the ability to [specific skill or responsibility]. Familiarity with [additional tool, framework, or methodology] is advantageous, and prior experience in [related task or industry] is preferred. Additionally, the role requires a keen attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency.

Hold a Bachelor’s degree or a Diploma in the field of banking.

Seeking candidates with a strong background in relevant fields, including but not limited to [specific industries or roles if mentioned], [X] years of hands-on experience in [specific tasks or technologies], and a proven track record in [specific achievements or skills]. Applicants should possess [specific certifications or degrees if applicable] and demonstrate proficiency in [key tools or methodologies]. Additionally, experience with [relevant industry practices or systems] is highly desirable, as is the ability to [specific soft skills or leadership qualities]. Familiarity with [specific regulations, standards, or frameworks] is also preferred.

Seeking candidates with at least two years of hands-on technical experience.

Seeking candidates with a solid foundation in key knowledge areas and a diverse skill set, demonstrated through relevant education or experience. Proficiency in specific technical or industry-related competencies is essential, along with strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability to evolving challenges. Excellent communication skills are required to collaborate effectively within teams and convey complex ideas clearly. Familiarity with relevant tools, methodologies, and best practices is highly valued to ensure efficient execution of duties.

Demonstrates strong expertise in internal computer operating systems and application software.

Individuals must possess proficient quantitative and analytical capabilities to interpret data, identify trends, and derive actionable insights.

Collaborative proficiencies are essential, requiring the ability to function effectively within group settings, engage constructively with colleagues, and contribute to collective objectives. Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to foster positive working relationships, communicate ideas clearly, and resolve conflicts diplomatically. Experience in cross-functional teamwork, whether in project-based environments or ongoing operations, is highly valued, as is the capacity to adapt to diverse team dynamics and maintain a cooperative attitude under varying pressures.

Enthusiastic and diligent interpersonal skills are essential for this role, ensuring effective collaboration and strong professional relationships.

Possesses extensive expertise in product knowledge, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of features, benefits, and applications to effectively address customer inquiries and promote sales.

Proficiency in International Trade Rules and their application within Trade Finance is required.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , Diploma

Experience Required

2 years

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