About Company
Santander UK is a leading financial services provider in the UK, offering a wide range of personal and commercial banking products and services. Part of the larger global Santander Group, one of the world’s largest banks, we are committed to helping people and businesses prosper. With a strong presence across the UK, we pride ourselves on our customer-centric approach, innovative solutions, and commitment to supporting local communities. We foster an inclusive and dynamic work environment where employees are encouraged to grow, develop, and make a real impact. Joining Santander UK means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making banking simple, personal, and fair for all our customers.
Job Description
Are you a financially astute professional with a keen eye for detail and a passion for helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals? Santander UK, a leading financial services provider, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Loan Officer specializing in Credit Evaluation & Disbursement to join our vibrant team in Hoylake, Liverpool. This pivotal role involves assessing the creditworthiness of applicants, structuring appropriate loan products, and ensuring efficient fund disbursement, all while delivering an exceptional customer experience.
You will be instrumental in guiding clients through the entire lending process, from initial consultation and application to final approval and funding. We’re looking for someone who can expertly balance thorough risk assessment with proactive business development, upholding stringent regulatory standards and internal policies at all times. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to our community’s financial health, working with a diverse portfolio of clients and loan products, including personal loans, mortgages, and small business financing.
Your day-to-day will involve meticulously reviewing financial statements, credit histories, income verification, and other relevant documentation to make informed and responsible lending decisions. Beyond the analytical aspect, you will serve as a trusted advisor, explaining complex financial terms clearly and ensuring clients fully understand their obligations, terms, and conditions. You’ll work closely with other branch personnel and back-office teams to streamline the application process and ensure timely disbursement of funds.
Success in this role requires strong analytical capabilities, exceptional communication and negotiation skills, a deep understanding of financial products, and an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and client satisfaction. You will be expected to maintain up-to-date knowledge of lending regulations, market trends, and Santander’s product offerings to provide the best possible advice and service. Join us and be a part of a team that empowers dreams and fuels growth, making a tangible difference in the lives of our customers and the prosperity of our local economy.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate loan applications by assessing applicants' financial information, creditworthiness, and collateral.
- Analyze financial statements, credit reports, and other relevant data to determine risk and repayment capacity.
- Structure loan packages, terms, and conditions that meet both customer needs and bank guidelines.
- Conduct thorough due diligence and ensure compliance with all internal policies and external lending regulations (e.g., FCA guidelines).
- Communicate loan decisions to applicants, clearly explaining approvals, denials, or requests for additional information.
- Counsel applicants on loan options, financial literacy, and the application process, maintaining excellent customer relations.
- Prepare comprehensive loan proposals and present them to credit committees for approval when necessary.
- Facilitate the disbursement of approved funds accurately and efficiently.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of all lending products, services, and regulatory changes.
- Actively participate in business development activities to attract new clients and cross-sell bank products.
Required Skills
- Minimum 3 years of experience in a lending or credit evaluation role within a financial institution.
- Proven experience with credit analysis, financial statement analysis, and risk assessment.
- Strong understanding of lending principles, loan products (personal, mortgage, business), and credit cycles.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
- Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
- Demonstrated ability to work accurately under pressure and meet deadlines.
- In-depth knowledge of UK financial regulations (e.g., FCA, anti-money laundering) relevant to lending.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field.
- CII (Chartered Insurance Institute) or CeMAP (Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice) qualification.
- Experience with CRM systems and digital lending platforms.
- Previous experience working with a diverse client base in a retail banking environment.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Generous pension scheme with employer contributions.
- Comprehensive health and wellbeing benefits, including private medical insurance.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy/sell extra days.
- Enhanced parental leave policies.
- Employee assistance program and mental health support.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and career progression.
- Discounted banking products and services.
- Cycle to Work scheme and other lifestyle benefits.
How to Apply
If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply directly through our official careers portal. Please click on the application link below to submit your CV and cover letter, detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this position at Santander UK. We look forward to reviewing your application.