Lead Model Validation

Recruiter:

Network Recruitment

Job Ref:

NFP016468/ZG

Date posted:

Thursday, December 18, 2025

Location:

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Salary:

Annually

SUMMARY:
My client is looking for an experienced, motivated, and self-driven professional to join their team as a Model Validation Lead. If you enjoy making a meaningful impact through data and advanced analytics, this is your opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and innovative environment.

POSITION INFO:
The model validation function is critical to my client’s organisation, ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and governance of models across risk, operations, and analytics.

As a Model Validation Lead, you will provide technical expertise in validating advanced AI and ML models, mentor Analysts, and ensure adherence to governance standards. You will design and execute independent validations, develop challenger models, and collaborate with stakeholders. This role requires strong technical modelling skills and excellent collaboration to influence outcomes in a complex environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide subject matter expertise and guidance on the validation of models, particularly machine learning models
Ensure that robust model governance and risk management processes are in place
Lead independent validations across a range of models, including operational, risk, and analytics models
Mentor and support Analysts’ professional development
Design and implement challenger models using advanced ML methods
Research new ML algorithms and methodologies to ensure that models follow best practice
Ensure that models meet governance, regulatory, and internal standards
Partner with development teams and stakeholders to provide challenges and assurance
Contribute to the enhancement of model validation frameworks and best practices

Job Experience and Skills Required:

Education: Bachelors Degree in Maths/Stats or a related field
Experience: 6+ years of proven experience in model development, with direct model validation or review experience preferred
Strong technical expertise in tree-based methods, neural networks, clustering, anomaly detection, and other advanced ML/statistical techniques
Experience with cloud platforms (AWS preferred) and emerging technologies, such as large language models, is a plus
Ability to mentor and develop junior team members
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Able to design and deliver end-to-end ML projects independently
Experience with data mining, predictive modelling, and presenting findings to senior stakeholders

Apply now!

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