Western Cape: Model Validation Lead – Data Science posted by Network Finance

• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge AI and machine learning models
• A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and ownership
• Mentorship and leadership opportunities as you guide and grow a team of analysts
• Direct involvement in business-critical risk and strategy decisions

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead independent validations across a range of models including credit risk, operational optimisation, financial crime, and marketing.
• Design and implement challenger models using advanced machine learning methods.
• Partner with model developers and stakeholders to provide technical assurance and effective challenge.
• Mentor junior analysts, supporting their professional and technical growth.
• Contribute to the development of model governance frameworks and best practices.

Job Experience and Skills Required:
Education:

• Minimum: Honours Degree in Mathematics, Statistics or Data Science
• Preferred: Masters Degree in Mathematics, Statistics or Data Science

Experience:

• 6+ years’ proven experience in model development (direct model validation experience an advantage).
• Exposure to governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management.
• Proven track record of mentoring and leading junior analysts.

Skills:

• Strong technical expertise in machine learning techniques (tree-based methods, neural networks, clustering, anomaly detection).
• Skilled in Python/R and experience with cloud platforms (AWS preferred).
• Ability to present findings and influence senior stakeholders.
• Able to work independently and manage multiple validation projects end-to-end.

Apply now!
For more exciting Finance vacancies, please visit:
www.********.co.za

I also specialise in recruiting in the following:
– Actuarial roles (Life, Short-Term, Health, Pensions, Quantitative)
– Data Scientists / Data Analysts (Python, R, SQL, Machine Learning)
– Risk Analysts (Credit, Market, Model Risk, Operational)
– Pricing Specialists (Insurance, Financial Products)
– Machine Learning & AI Data Scientists (ML Ops, NLP, Predictive Modelling)
– Quantitative Specialists across Banking, Insurance, and FinTech
If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider the vacancy application unsuccessful. Your profile will be kept on our database for any other suitable roles/positions.
For more information, contact:
Heidi Joubert
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Connect with me on LinkedIn!
www.********.co.za