Real Estate Finance / Lending - Vice President, Australia

We are seeking a highly motivated Vice President to join our Real Estate Financing team. The successful candidate will be responsible for originating, structuring, executing, and managing real estate financing transactions, with a primary focus on loan-on-loan and back leverage solutions for real estate debt platforms. The role also includes evaluating direct lending opportunities on an opportunistic basis. This position requires close collaboration with clients and internal partners to deliver customized financing solutions that align with client objectives and the firm’s risk appetite.

Job Responsibilities

Origination & Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain relationships with real estate borrowers, debt funds, investors, private equity sponsors, and institutional clients.
• Drive the growth of the loan-on-loan and back leverage business for the real estate financing desk.
• Identify and pursue new lending opportunities across target markets and asset classes.
• Lead client pitches, presentations, and transaction proposals in partnership with senior management.

Deal Structuring & Execution

• Structure and negotiate loan terms for back leverage facilities and direct lending transactions, including senior, mezzanine, construction, and bridge financing.
• Conduct and review financial modeling, cash flow analysis, and valuation assessments to support transaction recommendations.
• Prepare credit approval materials in accordance with underwriting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with internal teams (Legal, Credit Risk, Compliance, Syndications, Capital Markets) to ensure efficient transaction execution.

Portfolio & Risk Management

• Monitor and manage a portfolio of real estate loans, identifying early warning signals and recommending proactive actions.
• Perform regular asset reviews, covenant compliance checks, and risk assessments.
• Manage amendments and restructurings as required.

Market & Sector Expertise

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of real estate market trends, capital flows, and sector-specific risks.
• Provide strategic input to senior management regarding market positioning, lending appetite, and the competitive landscape.

Required Qualifications, Capabilities, and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Real Estate, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of experience in real estate finance, investment banking, or commercial lending, with a proven track record of executed transactions.
• Deep understanding of real estate asset classes, financing structures, and valuation methodologies.
• Strong credit analysis skills, with experience preparing and presenting credit approval documents.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Advanced financial modeling and analytical skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple transactions under tight deadlines.
• High integrity and sound judgment in decision-making.

Preferred Qualifications, Capabilities, and Skills

• MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking.
• Team-oriented leadership style with the ability to mentor junior staff.