Trade Finance & SWIFT Payments Operations Specialist

About the job

Job Summary: The Trade Finance & SWIFT Payments Operations Specialist will be responsible for end-to-end processing of trade finance transactions with a primary focus on SWIFT payments (MT102, MT202 ... ), ISO 20022, and trade-related payments. This role demands deep expertise in SWIFT messaging, trade payments processing, and compliance, along with comprehensive knowledge of documentary credits, collections, reimbursements, and discounting. The specialist will ensure all transactions are executed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory and internal standards. Key Responsibilities: • Process and Authorize SWIFT Payment Transactions: • Handle and verify high-value SWIFT payments (MT102, MT202, MT103, MT202COV, pacs.008, pacs.009, etc.) related to trade finance. • Ensure accurate preparation, review, and authorization of SWIFT messages for trade settlements and reimbursements. • Oversee ISO 20022 payment message processing and participate in related migration initiatives. • Trade Finance Transaction Processing: • Manage end-to-end processing of Import & Export Letters of Credit, Documentary Collections (DP/DA), Reimbursements, and Discounting transactions. • Oversee payments under trade instruments, including export/import bills, LC issuances, amendments, and document checking as per UCP600, ISBP 821, and URC 522 guidelines. • Compliance & Risk Controls: • Ensure all SWIFT and trade transactions comply with AML, sanctions, and internal compliance requirements. • Conduct thorough sanctions screening and maintain strong risk controls for all payment and trade finance operations. • Operational Excellence: • Meet internal SLAs and maintain high standards of accuracy and efficiency. • Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to resolve payment or trade transaction issues promptly. Preferred Qualifications, Capabilities, and Skills: • SWIFT & Payments Expertise: • In-depth knowledge of SWIFT MT payment message types (MT102, MT103, MT202, MT202COV, MT700, MT742, MT799, MT999, etc.) and ISO 20022 standards (pacs.008, pacs.009). • Hands-on experience in end-to-end trade payments processing, including settlements, reimbursements, and discounting. • Trade Finance Knowledge: • Strong technical expertise in Documentary Credits, Collections, and Reimbursements. • Thorough understanding of UCP600, ISBP 821, URR 725, and URC 522. • Analytical & Communication Skills: • Ability to quickly understand complex payment and trade finance issues and apply sound judgment. • Excellent analytical skills and strong verbal communication in English. Preferred Education, Certifications, and Systems: • Graduate/Postgraduate in Commerce, Finance, or Banking. • CDCS / CITF certification preferred. • Proficiency in MS Office and Trade Finance systems (e.g., Exim Bills, Finacle, MTS, etc.).

Qualifications

• Graduate/Postgraduate in Commerce, Finance, or Banking
• CDCS
• CITF certification preferred