Trade Finance Associate

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

Is the next step in your career at SMBC Group EMEA?

We're looking for a Trade Finance Associate to join our Global Trade Finance Department (GTFD) in Frankfurt.

This role offers the opportunity to develop expertise across a broad range of Trade Finance products while supporting the origination, structuring, and execution of transactions throughout EMEA. Working closely with senior colleagues, clients, and internal stakeholders, you will contribute to business development activities, transaction delivery, and the continued growth of the Trade Finance franchise.

In this role you will be responsible for:

• Supporting the origination, structuring, and execution of Trade Finance transactions across the transaction lifecycle
• Assisting with marketing activities, client engagement, and business development initiatives to support revenue generation across EMEA
• Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate efficient and compliant transaction execution

For you to succeed in the role, you'll need to have:

• Initial experience in Trade Finance, Transaction Banking, Structured Finance, Corporate Banking, or a related area
• Good analytical and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and cultures

The anticipated salary range for this role is € 51,000 - € 77,000, with the final offer determined based on the candidate’s skills, experience, role scope, location, and relevant market factors. In addition to base salary, the role may be eligible for a discretionary incentive award and a competitive benefits package, including core benefits such as pension provision.

Business Area

The Trade Finance Associate is part of the Global Trade Finance Department Front Office platform in EMEA. Reporting to the Team Head, the role provides support throughout the transaction lifecycle, from initial client engagement and transaction preparation to execution and follow-up activities. The position offers exposure to client interactions, transaction structuring, and deal execution, while providing opportunities to develop technical expertise and assume greater responsibility over time.

The role requires close collaboration with internal stakeholders including Relationship Managers, Credit, Legal, Compliance, Operations, Treasury, and Portfolio Management teams, as well as external counterparties, to ensure the successful and timely delivery of transactions.

Position Description

Our role will enable you to:

• Develop expertise across a range of Trade Finance products, including Documentary Trade, Supply Chain Finance, and Receivables Finance solutions
• Gain exposure to the full transaction lifecycle, from origination and structuring through to execution and portfolio management
• Support business development initiatives and client engagement activities across EMEA
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and product specialists across the organisation
• Contribute to the delivery of team objectives, including revenue growth and client relationship development
• Work within an international environment alongside colleagues and stakeholders across multiple EMEA locations

What will you bring to the role?

• Initial experience in Trade Finance, Transaction Banking, Structured Finance, Corporate Banking, or a related banking environment
• Basic to good knowledge of Trade Finance products, including Documentary Trade, Supply Chain Finance, Receivables Finance, or related working capital solutions
• Strong analytical, financial, and organisational skills, with a high level of attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and support transactions within demanding timelines
• Understanding of transaction execution processes and associated documentation requirements
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams, functions, and cultures
• Proactive and collaborative approach, with a willingness to learn and develop within a client-focused environment
• Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel and PowerPoint
• Familiarity with banking systems, digital tools, or AI-enabled solutions would be advantageous
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken

Desirable:

• Advanced German language skills
• Additional European language capabilities, such as Dutch, Nordic, or Central and Eastern European languages
• Experience supporting Trade Finance transactions in an international banking environment
• Exposure to client-facing activities, transaction structuring, or business development initiatives
• Knowledge of risk management, compliance, and regulatory considerations relevant to Trade Finance
• Understanding of ECA-backed transactions, structured trade solutions, or receivables finance structures would be an advantage

Competencies

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!