Manager – Model Risk & Validation

Barclay Simpson are pleased to be representing a specialist consumer banking group in their search for a Manager – Model Validation.  The role is based in the group risk office, and will be a key member of the team which is responsible for the validation and risk management of model used across the group, as well as the development and implementation of the model risk framework.  The Manager will lead the hands on validation of a range of credit and other risk models used across the group, discussing identified model risks and remedial actions with model owners and users.  The scope of the role will cover all internal models, mostly credit risk (IFRS9, scorecards, decision science and some ML models) but will also cover treasury, capital planning and forecasting and other internal models.

The firm are happy to consider remote working, or employees can be based at one of the 4 UK offices. Therefore,  employee’s can be based anywhere in the UK.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and perform independent validation of models across the Group, engaging with Analytics teams and Senior Management in the timely completion of model validations and reporting of identified findings and weaknesses of models.
• Develop and shape the overall approach to model validation and model risk management across the Group.
• Manage the prioritisation of models requiring validation according to model materiality, business use, complexity and other factors.
• Embed the Group Model Risk Policy in the business and functions across the Group and provide necessary training to stakeholders across the Group.
• Provide oversight of model risk activities across the Group and work across the Three Lines of Defence and external audit in assessing the effectiveness of model risk controls across the Group.
• Engage with Senior Stakeholders (e.g. Finance Directors, Heads of Functions) on key model risk activities.
• Implement accurate, timely and concise reporting of model limitations, model risk control weaknesses or material model risks to Senior Management and relevant forums/committees.
• Coach more junior members of the analytics functions across the Group in order to enhance capability to meet the Group model risk management objectives.
• Manage day to day activity and set clear objectives to drive individual performance to achieve delivery of departmental targets and goals.
• Support the Head of Model Risk in ensuring the right skillsets are in the team and the wider analytics functions across the Group.
• Provide regular and timely feedback to team members

​Key Requirements:

• • Practical understanding of model validation techniques particularly on retail credit risk, IFRS9, or IRB models.
  • Proficiency in statistical programming (e.g. SAS, Python).
  • Knowledge of model risk management regulations and standards in the UK and EU.
  • Strong communication (written and oral) and influencing skills particularly at Senior level.
  • Project management experience, particularly in the delivery of model validation or development tasks.
  • Good Knowledge and experience of how key and material models across the Group are independently validated as required in Policy.
  • Experience of making sure that Model Risk Policy requirements are understood and followed across the Group.
  • Significant relevant analytical experience in retail financial services or banking sector.
  • Significant hands-on model validation and/or model development experience in retail financial services or banking sector.
  • Honours Degree (2:1 or better) or equivalent degree in a quantitative subject such as Statistics or Mathematics