Model Risk Specialist – Hybrid

Overview

Position Description

The Model Risk Specialist (“Specialist”) will support the Model Risk Analyst and Manager of Risk Technology & Operations in the implementation and execution of the Model Risk Management (MRM) framework as part of the 2nd Line of Defense. The MRM framework sets forth the enterprise level programs, governance, policies and practices to proactively identify, assess, mitigate, monitor, and report on model risk exposures in business and operations at all levels of the organization. This position will assist with the day-to-day management of model risk: providing assurance that models are governed by appropriate policies, standards, and procedures; that they are subject to robust performance monitoring; and that their use is safeguarded by effectively designed operating controls. This teammate will foster internal collaboration, execute leading industry practices in MRM, and support MRM in alignment to the Bank’s strategic plan and compliance with applicable regulations.

Position Accountabilities

· Conduct independent model validations from inception (scoping, project planning, etc.) to conclusion (presenting results and recommendations to business partners and senior management). Includes an assessment of and a critical challenge to the following core elements:
o Design and Development
o Input Processing
o Output and Use
o Performance
o Governance

· Monitor status of model validation findings and facilitate their resolution
· Periodically assess model performance results
· Perform periodic reviews
· Maintain MRM Policy and Standards by ensuring their operational soundness, effectiveness, and compliance with applicable regulations
· Design risk-based, tailored governance processes related to classification of models, findings, etc.
· Collaborate with the ERM System Support team with a focus on establishing efficient MRM workflows and process automation, including building robust reporting & analytics capabilities (e.g. KPIs, dashboards, reports)
· Manage the enterprise-wide model and non-model tool inventory, including the model documentation library
· Maintain the Validation, Periodic Review, and other schedules
· Create MRM Committee deck and report to the MRM Committee quarterly
· Serve as a SME on regulatory guidance as it pertains to MRM (i.e. SR 11-7, OCC 2011-12)
· Develop and nurture strong working relationships with business partners
· Consistently promote evidence-based decision-making across the enterprise
· Interact with regulators as needed and maintain a working knowledge of Federal and State banking laws and regulations
· Develop and pursue a training and development plan that is aligned with company and MRM competencies, including career enhancement objectives

Organizational Relationship

· The Model Risk Specialist assignment to the Manager of Risk Technology & Operations.
· Internal – Extensive contact with 2nd Line of Defense risk team, 1st Line of Defense risk team, line and function management, Legal, Compliance, Audit, and other key constituencies.
· External – Occasional contact with regulatory agencies regarding policies and procedures, banking regulations, and related issues. Contact with third party vendors in conjunction with reporting and/or other projects

Position Qualifications

Education & Experience
· Graduate or Doctorate degree (completed or in progress) in a quantitative field such as Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Financial Engineering, Economics, etc.
· 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience in financial services industry (or in an academic capacity) in the quantitative space (e.g., Model Validator, Model Developer, Quantitative Risk Analyst, Economics Teacher/Professor, Economist or similar).

Knowledge & Skills

· Experience in the risk management three lines of defense model
· Experience in use of integrated risk management and case management tools
· Ability to coordinate action plan documentation and execution with cross-functional teams
· Ability to perform multiple tasks in a high change environment and to work both independently as well as a team member
· Sound leadership effectiveness including a strong ability to influence peers and line of business leaders
· Advanced understanding of statistical model building, econometric forecasting, machine learning, data validation techniques, and demonstrated ability to apply such methods
· Proficiency in statistical programming languages/applications (e.g., SAS, R, SPSS, STATA, Python)
· Intellectual curiosity; superior problem-solving and research abilities
· Excellent project management and organizational skills
· Strong verbal and written communication skills (especially, an ability to explain complex technical ideas to non-technical audience)
· Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to MRM (including SR 11-7)

The target hiring compensation range for this role is the equivalent of $42-47 an hour. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.
Additional benefits offered may include; medical health insurance and dental insurance, life insurance, and eligibility to participate in 401k plan with company match.

About Aquent Talent: 

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands. 

Our talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.