Model Validation Manager

Overview

In this role you will serve as a senior escalation point for complex validation challenges and lead with technical excellence. You will validate AI/ML models and traditional models used across Starling, and contribute to risk governance improvements. You will produce and review validation findings, engage with developers and owners, and present insights to senior leadership. You will foster collaboration across stakeholders to ensure robust model risk management throughout the lifecycle. This is a mission-driven opportunity to shape how Starling leverages advanced analytics safely and effectively.

Pay / Benefits

• 25 days holiday
• Birthday day off
• Pension scheme
• Life insurance (4x salary)
• Private Medical Insurance with VitalityHealth
• Perkbox discounts

Responsibilities

• Act as senior escalation point for complex validation challenges
• Validate AI/ML models and traditional models (e.g., IFRS 9, Forecasting, Operational Risk)
• Contribute to development and enhancements of the Model and AI risk governance framework
• Produce and review validation reports and ensure timely addressing of findings
• Lead on Risk Assurance reviews and create committee papers
• Present high-level validation findings to senior leadership
• Engage with stakeholders to embed robust model risk practices throughout the lifecycle

Key requirements

• Graduate-level education preferred in numerical discipline or equivalent experience
• Proven track record building, mentoring, and managing high-performing quantitative teams
• Ability to coach staff through complex AI and traditional model validations
• Extensive experience overseeing a broad portfolio of model types
• Deep hands-on expertise validating advanced AI/ML algorithms and traditional models
• Expertise in Python/R/SQL/SAS and spreadsheets
• Knowledge of model and AI risk management and governance best practices
• Ability to articulate findings clearly to diverse audiences
• Organised, flexible, and detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and teamwork

• excellent communication
• teamwork
• stakeholder engagement
• AI/ML model validation
• validation of traditional risk models (e.g., IFRS 9, Forecasting, Operational Risk)
• Python

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