Director of Model Validation

About the Role:

The Director of Model Validation will lead United Community Bank’s (UCBI) model validation program, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidance such as SR 11-7. This role involves executing high-risk model validations, mentoring junior validators, and overseeing validation activities across UCBI’s model inventory. The Director will also contribute to the annual model risk assessment, validation planning, and reporting, while providing expert insight into model risk management practices.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead and oversee model validation activities, ensuring adherence to best practices and regulatory standards.
• Independently conduct validations of high-risk models, including credit risk, ALM, fraud, BSA/AML, operations, and marketing models.
• Collaborate with model stakeholders to provide effective challenge and ensure robust model lifecycle management.
• Assist in the annual model risk assessment and validation scheduling.
• Maintain and update the model inventory and track validation findings.
• Review model documentation and performance and support regular model evaluations.
• Stay current with regulatory requirements and apply them during validations.
• Conduct research to enhance modeling and validation practices.
• Participate in compliance training and other professional development activities.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience:

• 7+ years of relevant experience in model validation, development, or quantitative risk management.
• Experience with credit risk, fraud detection, BSA/AML, operations, and treasury models.
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience in a model risk or quantitative analysis environment.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Economics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Advanced degree preferred with at least 3 years of relevant experience.

Required Skills:

• Strong quantitative analysis and statistical modeling expertise.
• Proficiency in Python (advanced), R, MATLAB, or SQL.
• Deep understanding of model validation techniques and regulatory frameworks (e.g., SR 11-7, OCC 2011-12).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects with minimal supervision.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with machine learning and AI applications in financial modeling.
• Experience in model risk governance and issue tracking systems.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and collaborate across departments.

Supervisory Responsibility:

This position may supervise model validation activities and mentor junior analysts. It may also manage validation-related projects and external validation resources.

Working Environment:

Travel: Up to 20%
Schedule Flexibility: Evenings and weekends as needed

Conditions of Employment:

• Must be able to pass a criminal background & credit check
• This is a full-time, non-remote position in Greenville, SC

FLSA Status: 

• Exempt

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.