Nihal K

Seasoned banking professional with 12+ years of international experience in process architecture, trade finance, and client onboarding. Expert in driving end-to-end process optimization, regulatory compliance (RCSA, AML/KYC), and automation initiatives using Agile methodologies. Currently based in Riyadh, adept at stakeholder management across EU and AE regions, seeking to enhance operational excellence within Saudi Arabia's financial sector through effective coordination and communication. Proficient in managing client accounts, facilitating funding processes, and ensuring seamless implementation of projects. Skilled in planning and decision-making, applying a strong logical and analytical mindset to think outside the box
while adhering to regulations and enhancing daily operations.

Process Architect - NatWest Group (UK) (Oct 2018 - Present)
• Mapped and documented 50+ banking functions using IBM BlueWorks, supporting internal RCSA reviews and audits, facilitating compliance with regulations.
• Led an automation initiative that cut manual processing by 30%, boosting SLA adherence and delivering a benefit equivalent to 5 FTEs, enhancing decision-making.
• Partnered with IT to implement a digital workflow tool, reducing handoffs and exceptions by 40%, improving project coordination.

Client onboarding analyst - NatWest Markets (UK) (Jun 2016 - Oct 2018)
• Onboarded 120+ corporate and asset-management client accounts for FX, Rates, Bonds, and Options trading, ensuring seamless communication.
• Supported account management for 3 of the Top 5 global asset managers, facilitating effective operations. 
• Coordinated KYC/AML, tax, credit, and documentation teams across Poland, the USA, and UK, achieving 100% compliance, ensuring proper funding and coordination.
• Managed fund-onboarding lifecycles with weekly executive reporting, accelerating time-to-live by 25%, aiding in strategic planning.

Trade finance officer - NatWest Group (UK) (Oct - 2012 - Jun 2016)
• Executed end-to-end documentary collections (URC 522) for EU & AE clients, processing USD 500 M+ in transactions, supporting daily operations.
• Handled SWIFT payments, invoice discounting, and Nostro reconciliations; conducted quarterly control reviews that cut exception rates by 25%, improving implementation processes.
• Trained and mentored new team members on trade-finance best practices and compliance standards, encouraging thinking outside the box.

Master in Business Administration (Finance & Marketing) - Bharathiar University, India (2012) 
Bachelor's in Finance (B.Com), Calicut University, India (2007)