Job Summary
- Employer: FNB (First National Bank), part of FirstRand Group
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Credit Origination
- Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Key Responsibilities
- Originate, structure, and package Tourism sector credit deals for approval, ensuring alignment with the Bank’s credit policy, risk appetite, and sector strategy.
- Lead the end-to-end deal process from client engagement through to credit committee approval, drawdown, and post-implementation review.
- Identify transaction-specific credit risks, quantify them accurately, and implement appropriate risk mitigation measures in line with the Bank’s credit risk philosophy.
- Structure debt solutions tailored to Tourism operator business models, including seasonality-adjusted repayment profiles, occupancy-based cash flow projections, and appropriate collateral structures for lodge, hotel, and hospitality assets.
- Prepare comprehensive credit applications with detailed financial analysis, industry context, risk assessment, and structuring recommendations to a standard required for Internal Credit Risk Committee (ICRC) and Board Credit Risk Committee (BCRC) approval.
- Presentation of Tourism sector transactions at ICRC, BCRC, and other credit forums as required, articulating deal rationale, risk profile, and mitigation structure.
- Manage the loan drawdown process for Tourism transactions including construction-related Finance deals for new lodge developments and hotel refurbishments.
- Work in close partnership with Relationship Managers across the Enterprise, Mid-Touch, and SME sub-segments to structure and close Tourism sector deals.
- Manage the Tourism deal pipeline and portfolio quality within defined portfolio parameters and risk appetite thresholds.
- Conduct ongoing portfolio reviews of Tourism sector exposures, identifying emerging risks, opportunities for restructuring, and cross-sell potential.
- Monitor covenant compliance, security perfection, and drawdown conditions for Tourism sector transactions post-approval.
- Manage problem accounts within the Tourism portfolio, working with Credit and Business Recovery teams to protect the Bank’s position while supporting client viability where appropriate.
- Conduct business case analyses to drive growth strategies and defensive strategies to maintain and grow market share in the Tourism sector.
- Deliver periodic portfolio reporting to the Head of Lending and Origination on Tourism sector deal pipeline, closed transactions, portfolio quality, and forward outlook.
- Originate and drive periodic reviews of credit frameworks, policies, and processes as they relate to the Tourism and Hospitality sector, ensuring alignment with the Bank’s overall credit policy and regulatory requirements.
- Provide input into the development of Tourism-specific credit policies, lending guidelines, and collateral valuation frameworks.
- Contribute to the annual mandate submission for the Tourism sector, providing analytical foundation and sector positioning.
- Ensure that Tourism sector deals are structured in accordance with applicable credit policy, and escalate policy exception requests to the appropriate credit authority.
- Develop and maintain strong networks with key stakeholders in the Botswana Tourism market, including industry associations, tourism regulators, sector aggregators, and destination management partners.
- Support the development of Tourism sector credit capability across Commercial Banking through knowledge sharing, coaching of junior credit staff, and contribution to credit training programmes.
- Provide subject matter expertise on Tourism sector credit to Relationship Managers, junior deal makers, and credit analysts.
- Develop, encourage, and nurture collaborative relationships across areas of specialisation.
- Contribute to teamwork and inclusivity within own team.
- Maintain accurate and current data on all Tourism sector deals and portfolio exposures within the Bank’s credit systems and CRM Dynamics.
- Ensure development and continuous value-add improvement to credit origination and portfolio management processes for Tourism sector transactions.
- Manage risks in own area of responsibility and comply with all governance, legislative, audit, and credit risk management requirements.
- Complete all required administrative services through continuous reporting and updating of documents related to relevant stakeholders.
- Achieve expected financial targets and uphold associated service levels.
Requirements
- Business, Accounting, Finance, or related degree qualification.
- 3 to 5 years’ experience in a Deal Making, Credit Origination, or Structured Lending role within Commercial or Corporate Banking.
- Proven track record in credit structuring, deal packaging, and credit committee presentation.
- Strong financial and credit risk analysis skills with the ability to assess and mitigate risks effectively.
- Experience in managing complex transactions and presenting deals at internal and board-level credit committees.
- Understanding of the Tourism and Hospitality sector, its operators, and its structural and seasonal dynamics.
- Strong industry networks and stakeholder relationship management within the Botswana Tourism market advantageous.
- Excellent negotiation, business development, and problem-solving skills.
How to Apply
REF Code: R53718
About the Company
FNB Botswana is a licensed commercial bank operating in Botswana under the supervision of the Bank of Botswana. It provides retail, business, and corporate banking services across major urban centres including Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun. The bank launched operations in Botswana in 2011 after acquiring the former Botswana National Bank. FNB Botswana is a wholly owned subsidiary of FirstRand Limited, but it holds its own banking licence and operates independently within Botswana’s regulatory framework.
Banking and financial services in Botswana
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for a Deal Maker role in tourism credit origination at a bank like FNB Botswana?
A relevant degree in Finance, Commerce, or Tourism Management is usually expected, along with credit analysis or banking certifications. Experience in commercial lending, hospitality, or tourism sectors strengthens your application. Local institutions like BIUST or University of Botswana offer suitable programmes.
What does a typical day involve for a tourism Deal Maker in Botswana?
You will assess loan applications from hotels, lodges, and tour operators, conducting site visits across Botswana's tourism hubs like Maun and Kasane. You will negotiate terms, prepare credit papers, and present to credit committees. Relationship management with existing clients and collaboration with tourism industry stakeholders are also key.
How does workplace culture at banks like FNB Botswana differ from other sectors?
Banking culture in Botswana emphasises professionalism, punctuality, and hierarchical respect, with formal communication channels. Performance targets and client confidentiality are strictly enforced. However, FirstRand Group promotes inclusive practices and employee wellness programmes that balance this formality.
What career progression opportunities exist for Deal Makers in Botswana's banking sector?
Strong performers can advance to Senior Deal Maker, Credit Manager, or Sector Head roles within 3–5 years. Some transition to corporate banking, risk management, or specialised tourism finance advisory. Regional mobility within FirstRand's African operations is also possible for high achievers.
What employee benefits are standard for this level of role in Botswana banks?
Benefits typically include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, annual leave of 20–25 days, and performance bonuses. Banks often provide study assistance and professional membership subsidies. Specific arrangements vary by employer and are detailed in individual employment contracts.
How should I apply for this role, and what do Botswana employers prioritise in candidates?
Apply through official FirstRand career portals or reputable recruitment agencies operating in Gaborone. Employers prioritise demonstrated credit assessment skills, local tourism market knowledge, and strong Setswana or English communication abilities. Prepare for competency-based interviews and psychometric testing common in Botswana banking recruitment.
