Trade Finance Sr. Analyst
Santander is a global leader and innovator in the financial services industry, evolving from a high-impact brand into a technology-driven organization. Our people are at the heart of this journey, driving a customer-centric transformation that values bold thinking, innovation, and the courage to challenge what’s possible.
About the role
The Trade Finance Sr. Analyst is responsible for managing documentary credit transactions for importers and exporters, ensuring accurate processing, compliance with UCP 600 and related trade finance regulations, and timely support to clients and internal stakeholders. This role requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of international trade documentation, and the ability to mitigate operational and compliance risks.
Responsibilities
- Letter of Credit Operations
- Issues, advises, confirms, amends, transfers, and cancels letters of credit.
- Reviews letter of credit applications to ensure completeness and compliance with applicable requirements.
- Processes import and export documentary credits in accordance with UCP 600, ISBP, and Bank policies.
- Examines shipping and commercial documents presented under letters of credit.
- Identifies discrepancies and communicates findings to clients and correspondent banks.
- Processes payments, acceptances, negotiations, and reimbursements related to documentary credits.
- Trade Finance Administration
- Maintains accurate records of trade finance transactions.
- Monitors letter of credit expirations, maturity dates, and outstanding obligations.
- Processes documentary collections, standby letters of credit, and guarantees, as required.
- Reconciles trade finance accounts and investigates discrepancies.
- Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensures adherence to international trade regulations, sanctions requirements, AML/KYC standards, and internal control procedures.
- Screens transactions for sanctions and restricted-party compliance.
- Identifies operational risks and escalates issues through appropriate channels.
- Supports internal audits, external audits, and regulatory review activities.
- Customer Service
- Serves as a primary point of contact for clients regarding trade finance transactions.
- Provides guidance on documentary requirements and letter of credit terms.
- Coordinates with relationship managers, operations teams, and correspondent banks to resolve transaction-related issues.
- Responds promptly and professionally to client inquiries and transaction requests.
- Process Improvement
- Participates in process improvement and operational efficiency initiatives.
- Assists in the implementation of trade finance systems, enhancements, and automation projects.
- Contributes to team training, knowledge sharing, and the development of best practices.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent experience.
- 3 - 5 years of relevant experience or demonstrated required level of proficiency.
- Experience with SWIFT messaging (MT700, MT707, MT103, MT202, etc.) preferred.
- Strong understanding of:
- UCP 600 (Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits)
- ISBP (International Standard Banking Practice)
- URC 522 (Documentary Collections)
- ISP98 (Standby Letters of Credit)
- International trade documentation and Incoterms
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to work under deadlines in a high-volume environment.
- Proficiency with trade finance systems and Microsoft Office applications.
- Bilingual: English and Spanish.
Preferred Qualifications
- Established work history or equivalent demonstrated through a combination of work experience, training, military service, or education.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without requiring employer sponsorship to commence employment.
Pay
The base pay range for this position is $43,500.00 USD to $68,000.00 USD annually. For hourly positions (non-exempt), the annual range is based on a 40-hour work week. The exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, training, licensure and certifications, and location.
Benefits
Santander offers a competitive rewards package that includes benefits designed to support you, your family, and your well-being, now and into the future. For more details, visit Santander Benefits.