Trade Finance Associate

The Trade Finance Associate is responsible for supporting end-to-end import trade finance operations, ensuring compliance with banking, regulatory, and statutory requirements. The role involves close coordination with banks, regulatory bodies, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to facilitate timely issuance of trade instruments, accurate documentation, and smooth customs clearance of imported goods. The incumbent plays a critical role in mitigating trade risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enabling efficient cross-border transactions. Key Responsibilities: Arrange marine insurance for import sea shipments in compliance with trade finance and regulatory requirements. Prepare, submit, and monitor Form M and other statutory trade documents as required for the destination/importing country. Coordinate with banks for LC (Letter of Credit) applications, amendments, negotiations, and ensure adherence to agreed trade terms. Obtain and manage regulatory documentation including SONCAP Product Certificate, NAFDAC Import Permit, and other applicable import approvals. Apply for PAAR (Pre-Arrival Assessment Report) through the Nigeria Trade Portal and follow up on duty assessment and payment confirmation. Review, validate, and reconcile import documents such as Commercial Invoice (CI), Packing List (PL), Bill of Lading (BL), Certificate of Origin (COO), and Certificate of Analysis (COA). Share accurate and complete trade documents with the Import Clearance team and ensure timely follow-ups to support smooth cargo clearance. Maintain regular alignment with internal stakeholders, suppliers, banks, freight forwarders, and regulatory authorities, acting promptly on trade-related requirements. Support compliance with trade finance policies, foreign exchange regulations, and internal control procedures.

1–3 years of relevant experience in Trade Finance operations, preferably handling import sea shipments. Background in executing trade finance–related activities including LC processing, bank coordination, and import documentation. Working knowledge of marine insurance processes and coverage requirements for international shipments. Strong understanding of import-related statutory documents and regulatory guidelines such as Form M, PAAR, SONCAP, NAFDAC permits, and customs procedures. Experience in reviewing and validating trade documents including Commercial Invoice (CI), Packing List (PL), Bill of Lading (BL), Certificate of Origin (COO), and Certificate of Analysis (COA). Ability to coordinate effectively with banks, freight forwarders, clearing agents, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple shipments and meet regulatory timelines.