Western Cape: Credit Analyst Intern posted by Signa Opportunity

Responsibilities

Pipeline Development & Market Research

• Conduct research to identify and map high-potential, female-led SMEs in sectors such as consumer goods, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.
• Build and maintain databases of potential investees and sector insights.
• Support outreach activities and help nurture early relationships with prospective SMEs.

Credit Assessment & Analysis

• Assist in preparing credit memos and investment committee documentation.
• Analyse bank statements, management accounts, financial statements, and cash-flow data.
• Review an SME’s digital footprint, operational model, and market positioning to identify potential risks and opportunities.
• Contribute to the development of creditworthiness assessments and risk rating inputs.

Portfolio Support & Monitoring

• Help track portfolio company performance and identify areas requiring intervention.
• Support the development of value-addition frameworks for borrower businesses, including financial management, operational efficiency, and digital enablement.
• Participate in monitoring calls, site visits, and internal reviews.

Minimum Requirements

• South African Unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 34.
• Must not have participated on the YES programme before.
• Matric.
• Post-graduate qualification (completed or in progress) in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Commerce, Engineering, or Politics, Philosophy & Economics.
• Strong analytical skills, especially in interpreting financial statements and bank data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Excel or Google Sheets (basic financial modelling exposure is an advantage).

Preferred Attributes

• Curious, detail-oriented, and eager to learn.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Passionate about inclusive, socio-economic growth and gender-lens investing.
• Able to work collaboratively within a diverse team and engage professionally with entrepreneurs.
• 6 – 12 months of relevant experience (e.g., consulting, finance, accounting, or research), OR practical experience running or supporting a small business.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in private credit, SME finance, and impact-driven investment.
• Exposure to real businesses solving real problems and a team that prioritises transparency, learning, and strong governance.

Please consider your application unsuccessful when you have not heard from the Signa Opportunity team within two weeks of submitting your application.