Senior Model Validation Quant Analyst

<ul> <li>Hybrid</li> <li>Full time</li> <li>Practice: Quantitative Finance</li> <li>Grade: Senior Manager OR Director equivalent to SVP to Director Level</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Overview</strong></p> <p>We are seeking a <strong>Senior Model Validation Quantitative Analyst</strong> to provide independent review and challenge of quantitative models used across risk, pricing, capital, and stress testing. The role sits within the <strong>Model Risk / Quantitative Analytics</strong> function and plays a critical part in ensuring models are <strong>theoretically sound, well-implemented, and compliant with regulatory expectations</strong>. You will work closely with model developers, risk stakeholders, and governance committees, contributing to robust model risk management across the firm.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Key responsibilities</strong></p> <ul> <li>Perform <strong>end-to-end independent validation</strong> of quantitative models, including:</li> <li>Conceptual soundness and theoretical foundations</li> <li>Assumptions, limitations, and appropriateness of use</li> <li>Empirical testing, benchmarking, and sensitivity analysis</li> <li>Validate models across areas such as <strong>market risk, credit risk, capital, stress testing, and pricing</strong> (scope depending on experience).</li> <li>Review model implementation (code, calculations, data usage) and identify model risk issues.</li> <li>Produce <strong>clear, well-structured validation reports</strong> for senior governance forums.</li> <li>Provide constructive challenge to model developers and propose remediation actions.</li> <li>Support regulatory reviews, internal audits, and ongoing model governance activities.</li> <li>Contribute to the continuous improvement of <strong>model validation standards and methodologies</strong>.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Your competences</strong></p> <ul> <li>Strong academic background in <strong>mathematics, statistics, econometrics, physics, engineering, or quantitative finance</strong>.</li> <li>Solid experience in <strong>model validation, quantitative analytics, or model risk management</strong> within banking, consultancy, or financial services.</li> <li>Strong understanding of:</li> <li>Statistical modelling and time-series analysis</li> <li>Risk modelling frameworks (e.g. VaR, stress testing, PD/LGD, capital models)</li> <li>Proficiency in <strong>Python, R, or similar quantitative programming languages</strong>; ability to review and challenge model code.</li> <li>Familiarity with <strong>model risk governance and regulatory expectations</strong> (e.g. SR 11-7, ECB, PRA, Basel).</li> <li>Ability to independently design validation tests and benchmarks.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Intellectually curious</strong> with a strong instinct to challenge assumptions and dig into model behaviour.</li> <li><strong>Confident but collaborative</strong>, able to engage constructively with model developers and senior stakeholders.</li> <li>Clear and concise communicator, capable of translating complex quantitative topics for non-technical audiences.</li> <li>High standards of <strong>professional judgement, independence, and integrity</strong>.</li> <li>Well-organised, resilient, and comfortable managing multiple model reviews in parallel.</li> <li>Motivated to develop technical depth while contributing to broader model risk strategy.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Benefits &amp; Inclusion</strong></p> <p>We offer a competitive UK-aligned package, including:</p> <ul> <li>Competitive salary and performance bonus</li> <li>Private medical insurance, including mental health support</li> <li>Pension</li> <li>25 days annual leave</li> <li>Schemes: Cycle to work, Perks at work, Home and tech</li> <li>Training and development opportunities</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are respected and valued. We welcome applicants from every background and uphold equality across all characteristics. Diversity drives innovation and strengthens our ability to deliver exceptional results. Our aim is an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to collective success.</em></p>