Senior Director, Model Risk Management

Equifax

81d

About The Position

Equifax is seeking a seasoned and strategic leader to join our Data and Analytics Center of Excellence as the Senior Director, Model Risk Management. This is a critical leadership role responsible for independently validating and supervising a portfolio of statistical and advanced machine learning models and analytical solutions. This individual will lead a highly talented team of validators and serve as a key consultant on model risk matters across the organization.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a quantitative field such as statistics, data science, computer science, mathematics, economics, or finance.
• A PhD is strongly preferred.
• 7-10 years of industry experience in predictive modeling, data science, or a related quantitative field.
• Model Risk Management experience in banking or financial industry.
• Proven ability to quickly grasp complex concepts and identify potential model issues or validation gaps.
• Excellent interpersonal, networking, verbal, and written communication skills, with a proven ability to write and edit high-quality technical reports.
• Highly detail-oriented, proactive, and efficient.
• Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Programming experience with Python, R, and/or Scala.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience with credit risk model development and/or validation is highly preferred.
• 3+ years of experience managing a highly talented team with 6+ or more direct reports is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of and hands-on experience with either advanced forecasting analytics (e.g., logistic regression, time series modeling, ML classification models) or advanced machine learning techniques including generative AI and agentic AI.
• Extensive experience with Big Data environments and advanced computational processes.
• Demonstrated experience with model risk management and/or compliance is highly preferred.
• Proficiency with programming languages such as SAS, SQL, R, Python, Scala, and Spark.
• Hands-on experience with UNIX/LINUX and Google cloud environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of model validators, ensuring their professional growth and development.
• Oversee the execution of multiple complex validation projects simultaneously, from test design to final delivery and communication.
• Foster a culture of critical thinking, continuous improvement, and effective risk management within the team.
• Collaborate and coordinate with global partners, providing guidance and supervision on validation projects conducted by non-direct reports.
• Perform and lead independent, hands-on model validations, including deep-dive analysis of model design, performance, and implementation.
• Develop and execute comprehensive validation test designs to assess model soundness and identify potential risks.
• Critically assess the completeness and accuracy of model documentation, code, and marketing materials.
• Conduct deep-dive research on emerging analytical techniques, with a particular focus on validating models using generative AI and agentic AI.
• Develop and implement innovative validation approaches for complex and nontraditional models, including those with unstructured data and unique risk profiles.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to model developers and business owners on model design, development, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Review and provide guidance on model monitoring plans and ongoing performance reports.
• Drive the enhancement of Model Risk Management procedures and standards to align with evolving regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders across the organization, including marketing, technology, legal, compliance, and business owners, to ensure a robust model risk governance framework.
• Respond to and manage inquiries from clients, internal auditors, and regulators regarding model risk matters.

Benefits

• Comprehensive compensation and healthcare packages.
• 401k matching.
• Paid time off.
• Organizational growth potential through our online learning platform with guided career tracks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees