Quantitative and AI Model Validation Manager

Hello, we’re Starling. We built a new kind of bank because we knew technology had the power to help people save, spend and manage their money in a new and transformative way. We’re a fully licensed UK bank with the culture and spirit of a fast-moving, disruptive tech company. We’re a bank, but better: fairer, easier to use and designed to demystify money for everyone. We employ more than 3,000 people across our London, Southampton, Cardiff and Manchester offices.

We are looking for a talented and passionate Model Validation Manager to join our Model Risk Oversight Team. Our team plays a critical role in validating and overseeing the risks associated with all models across Starling, particularly those involving AI and other advanced modeling techniques. If you have experience in model validation or model development experience across a variety of models (especially within the AI/ML domain but ideally also covering more traditional models), and are eager to be part of the team that plays a vital role in model risk management, we want to hear from you!

As a Model Validation Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Leading the team of experienced analysts to deliver planned independent validation and oversight projects.
• Validating and supporting the validations of different types of models used across Starling, such as AI and ML models supporting our business operations, as well as more traditional models like IFRS 9, Forecasting, and Operational Risk.
• Producing and reviewing validation reports whilst engaging with the model developers and model owners to ensure the validation findings are understood and can be addressed within the agreed timelines. 
• Leading on Risk Assurance reviews.
• Producing committee papers and presenting at committees.
• Presenting high-level validation findings to Senior leadership.
• Engaging and forming close relationships with the key stakeholders to enable good model risk management practices throughout the model lifecycle.

Requirements

• Graduate level education preferable, ideally in a numerical degree (or an equivalent work experience).
• Experience in managing the team and leading on project delivery.
• Experience in various model validation or model developments. AI model knowledge is essential.
• Expert in the use of analytical tools such as Python/R/SQL/SAS and spreadsheets. 
• Good knowledge of regulatory and risk management guidelines, such as EBA guidelines, CRR and PRA rules would be a bonus.
• Ability to articulate findings from analysis in a succinct and clear way that is suitable for the target audience.
• Organised, flexible and adaptable, with the ability to switch between tasks seamlessly.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday (plus take your public holiday allowance whenever works best for you)
• An extra day’s holiday for your birthday
• Annual leave is increased with length of service, and you can choose to buy or sell up to five extra days off
• 16 hours paid volunteering time a year
• Salary sacrifice, company enhanced pension scheme
• Life insurance at 4x your salary
• Private Medical Insurance with VitalityHealth including mental health support and cancer care. Partner benefits include discounts with Waitrose, Mr&Mrs Smith and Peloton
• Generous family-friendly policies
• Perkbox membership giving access to retail discounts, a wellness platform for physical and mental health, and weekly free and boosted perks
• Access to initiatives like Cycle to Work and Salary Sacrificed Gym partnerships

About Us

You may be put off applying for a role because you don't tick every box. Forget that! While we can’t accommodate every flexible working request, we're always open to discussion. So, if you're excited about working with us, but aren’t sure if you're 100% there yet, get in touch anyway.

We’re on a mission to radically reshape banking – and that starts with our brilliant team. Whatever came before, we’re proud to bring together people of all backgrounds and experiences who love working together to solve problems.

Starling Bank is an equal opportunity employer, and we’re proud of our ongoing efforts to foster diversity & inclusion in the workplace. Individuals seeking employment at Starling Bank are considered without regard to race, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, ancestry, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

By submitting your application, you agree that Starling Bank may collect your personal data for recruiting and related purposes. Our Privacy Notice explains what personal information we may process, where we may process your personal information, its purposes for processing your personal information, and the rights you can exercise over our use of your personal information.