Ratings Associate, Banking

About the Role

The Ratings Associate (RA) will work with Lead Analysts in conducting comprehensive analysis on an assigned portfolio of credit ratings. The RA will perform holistic evaluations of credit risk by integrating credit inputs prepared by internal and external parties. In conducting credit analysis for their assigned portfolios, transactions, or credit reviews, RAs will actively participate in rating committee discussions and interact with issuers and other market participants, in collaboration with Lead Analysts.

The RA role is integral to Moody’s focus on ratings accuracy, research, and market outreach. The RA role will focus primarily on banks and non-bank financial institutions in South and Southeast Asia, with the potential for cross-training in other rating groups.

Responsibilities

Portfolio Management

• Performs day-to-day credit analysis related to ratings, research, presentations, and investor outreach, including:
  • Reviewing financial statements and charts, analyzing data and financial statements, building and updating financial forecasts, and writing analytical commentary in accordance with Moody’s methodologies
  • Assisting with proprietary models and new financial projections as applicable; identifying trends in data; and applying analytical skills and judgment to form well-reasoned credit conclusions
  • Developing a working knowledge of credit fundamentals through a review of components such as transaction documentation, cash flow analysis, or loss allocation rules
  • Preparing the first draft of rating committee memos in collaboration with Lead Analysts
  • Attending and participating in rating committee meetings, including offering analysis and opinions where appropriate
• Develops a strong working knowledge of Moody’s methodologies and credit rating best practices, applying these with moderate guidance
• Understands and identifies key factors that affect issuer credit ratings; engages with issuers directly for follow-up clarification and information
• May complete Credit Estimates used to assess elements of credit risk in certain rated transactions

Research & Investor Outreach

• Contributes to first drafts of core research (e.g., credit opinions, issuer and sector comments, press releases, pre-sale and new issue reports) in collaboration with Lead Analysts
• Contributes to research strategy, including idea generation and preliminary drafting, adhering to Moody’s research standards
• Attends investor briefings and issuer meetings as required; helps prepare presentation materials; arrives prepared to engage in discussions
• Builds positive relationships with issuers by proactively responding to issuer enquiries and taking initiative to understand the issuer’s business

Credit Administration

• Operates internal systems and software specific to the rating group
• Constructs and takes ownership of analytical databases as applicable; identifies issues with data for follow-up with Lead Analysts
• Demonstrates thorough understanding and judgment in applying Moody’s processes, documentation standards, and best practices, adhering to all laws and policies
• Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to certify relevant key codes as required; completes mandatory required training in a timely manner

Coaching & Guidance

• Provides clear, concise, and constructive guidance in delegating work to support teams
• Actively manages the workload pipeline to provide sufficient time for completion; seeks Ratings Associate Team Manager (RATM) guidance where needed to determine how to allocate work

Skills and Competencies

• 1–2 years of relevant working experience
• Good understanding of the banking sector and credit market
• Fluent in English; knowledge of other Asian languages will be a bonus
• Solid verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills
• Enjoys engaging in teamwork with a positive and constructive attitude
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Basic understanding of artificial intelligence concepts, with curiosity and enthusiasm for learning how AI tools can improve processes and drive efficiency; interest in exploring AI systems and a willingness to develop awareness of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use

Education

• Undergraduate degree required at a minimum; postgraduate (Masters, MBA) and other professional certifications (CPA, CFA) will be a bonus