If a credit risk manager is aiming for a Director of Global Credit role at a multinational company, the resume needs to do a lot more than just check boxes. It should tell a story that projects global leadership, strategic foresight, and deep operational experience. At this level, hiring managers are looking for more than someone who can run reports and monitor overdue accounts. They’re seeking someone who can shape credit policy on a global scale, mitigate geopolitical and economic risks, and help the company make confident, profitable decisions across borders. So, what does that story look like on a resume?
First off, international experience is golden. The candidate should highlight any work they’ve done across multiple regions. This could include managing credit in Asia-Pacific, negotiating with customers in Latin America, or navigating collections in Europe. Even better if they’ve led teams across time zones or implemented systems that impacted global operations. The point is to show comfort and competence in handling the complexities of international credit landscapes, including the ever-changing patchwork of compliance regulations, cultural differences, and political risks.
Next, strategic leadership needs to be front and center. This isn’t a role for someone who just follows policy — it’s for someone who creates it. The resume should show examples of where the candidate shaped or led credit policy development, risk frameworks, or cross-border credit structures. Maybe they helped overhaul the company’s risk tolerance matrix, redefined terms for key international accounts, or partnered with sales and finance to drive growth in emerging markets without compromising portfolio quality.
The ability to transform data into decisions is another must-have. Metrics matter at this level. The resume should include examples of how the candidate used key performance indicators, portfolio analytics, or predictive modeling to reduce DSO, minimize write-offs, or improve cash flow. If they’ve implemented credit scoring systems, trade credit insurance programs, or credit limit automation tools, those should be spelled out clearly. Hiring managers love quantifiable achievements. In other words, quantifiable results lend credibility to your narrative.
Collaboration and communication. Directors of Global Credit don’t operate in silos. Instead, they work closely with treasury, legal professionals, sales, IT, and even the supply chain. So, the resume should give examples of cross-functional initiatives: integrated ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, launched shared service centers, trained global teams, or managed change during a merger or acquisition. Bonus points for experience leading in a matrixed environment or influencing stakeholders without direct authority.
Finally, thought leadership and professional development round out the profile. Has the candidate presented at industry conferences? Written for trade publications? Held leadership positions in credit or finance associations like NACM, FCIB, or CFA? These credentials add polish and show a level of professional engagement that sets them apart. And if they’ve earned certifications like the CCE, CICP, CPA, or MBA with a finance concentration, those absolutely need to be highlighted.
Put it all together, and the ideal resume reads like a blueprint for global credit success. It should show the progression from tactical execution to strategic vision, with a track record of elevating credit from a back-office function to a business enabler. It’s not just about managing risk, it’s about leading through it.
Your thoughts and comments (nseiverd@cmiweb.com) are most welcome!
Nancy Seiverd, President
CMI Credit Mediators, Inc.
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