Operations Manager, Credit

Position Summary

The Operations Manager, Credit is responsible for overseeing the performance, compliance, and development of assigned Lease Credit Managers and their teams. This role ensures operational readiness and excellence in support of key business objectives and SLA's while maintaining strict adherence to Stellantis Financial Services policies and guidelines, in addition to applicable state and federal governing laws, rules, and regulations. The Operations Manager, Credit possesses an increased level of underwriting authority and effectively manages risk while ensuring decision outcomes and recommendations are within acceptable risk appetite and compliance standards, both internally and externally. In addition, the Operations Manager, Credit collaborates cross-functionally with Human Resources, Compliance, Funding, Sales, Lease Operations Support and Lease Product, and other Internal/External Stakeholders, including upper management and leadership to support departmental initiatives, enhance service levels, and process improvement.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and support a team of Lease Credit Managers by providing hands on training, coaching, and mentorship to achieve performance goals, service levels, and compliance standards
• Provide feedback, corrective action, and professional development to ensure accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
• Oversee daily operations and staffing for both exempt and non-exempt Lease Credit team member to ensure efficient workflow, timely decision making, and achievement of key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Partner cross-functionally with HR, Compliance, IT, Lease Operations Support, Lease Product on departmental projects, audits, ticket escalations, and personnel matters
• Exercise advanced credit decision authority to resolve high level escalations and inquiries from internal and external stakeholders while maintaining compliance with company policies & procedures, risk appetite and governing regulations (e.g., FCRA, ECOA, Reg M) where applicable
• Contribute to the review and development of Lease Credit policies, procedures, strategies, and initiatives, ensuring adequate communication and preparedness of operations personnel and systems for implementation
• Champion strong business relationships between Lease Credit, Lease Funding, Sales, and Dealers in assigned region(s) to achieve key business objectives
• Identify operational gaps, recommend innovative process improvements, and drive efficiency gains within the Lease Credit department
• Other duties as assigned; responsibilities and duties are subject to change to meet business needs

Additional Responsibilities

Perform the above-referenced essential duties and responsibilities as well as assist in directing the work of employees assigned to the department by leading and overseeing their day-to-day activities and work schedules and by providing work-related guidance to the Leasing team in accordance with the Company's policies and procedures. Although this position shall provide the authority to lead, oversee and direct the day-to-day work of assigned employees and to report work assessments to management, it shall not provide the authority to take the following actions: hire an employee, fire an employee, promote, or demote an employee, discipline an employee in a formal manner, reassign an employee, or alter benefits of an employee. All such decisions shall be made by the responsible senior manager(s) in consultation with the Human Resources Department.

Qualifications & Competencies

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Experience

• Minimum 5 years' experience in Lease or Retail auto underwriting
• Minimum 2 years' experience as a Credit Manager or similar position

Education

High school diploma and/or GED

Required Skills

• In-depth knowledge of auto finance, auto underwriting, lease terminology, and leasing processes
• Proven ability to effectively lead, motivate, and develop a team of direct reports, driving individual and collective success in achieving goals
• Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to multitask and prioritize effectively
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex situations and make sound decisions beyond the scope of written policies or standard guidelines
• Proficient in using originations software and Microsoft Office Suite of products
• Ability to perform and understand mathematical calculations and financial ratios
• Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven track record of driving performance improvements through audits, KPI management, coaching, and personnel and process development
• Experience with data analytics and leveraging reporting to identify gaps and implement solutions
• Strong understanding of employee and personnel relations and HR processes and procedures
• Associate or bachelor's degree in business administration, Finance, Accounting, or related field

Additional Information

This is a hybrid position. Must have reliable transportation and live within a commutable distance to Dallas, TX, Phoenix, AZ or Atlanta, GA.

Travel: 0 - 10% required on an as needed basis

Work Schedule: This position is a hybrid role, requiring in-office presence based on business needs, or to align with company requirements. The role also requires flexibility to work various shifts to meet business needs, which may include evening hours, holidays, and weekends.