Head of Model Governance

The Head of Model Risk Management will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a robust end-to-end model governance framework across Equifax in Australia and New Zealand. This role is crucial for ensuring that all models are developed and deployed in a manner that aligns with business objectives, mitigates risk, and meets all regulatory standards and industry best practices. This position requires deep expertise in designing and implementing model policies that promote a culture of responsible and compliant model management.

As the Head of Model Risk Management you will also be mentoring and guiding junior resources and working to ensure cross functional alignment with other Equifax teams.

What you’ll do

Framework Development & Implementation

• Design, implement, and continuously improve the end-to-end model governance framework, including policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines.

• Establish and maintain a comprehensive model inventory, ensuring accurate documentation of all models in use.

• Develop and implement a clear model lifecycle management process, covering model conceptualization, development, validation, implementation, monitoring, and decommissioning working closely with key stakeholders; Data Governance, Product teams, Model Development, and Data Asset Managers.

• Provide guidance and training to stakeholders on model governance policies, procedures, and best practices.

• Champion a strong model governance culture across the organisation.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify, assess, and monitor model risks, ensuring appropriate controls are in place to mitigate potential adverse impacts.

• Ensure compliance with relevant internal policies, industry regulations (e.g., APRA, BCBS 239), and external audit requirements.

• Facilitate internal and external model audits, addressing findings and recommendations promptly collaborating effectively with stakeholders.

Validation & Performance Monitoring, Documentation & Reporting

• Oversee the independent validation of models, ensuring the robustness, accuracy, and fitness for purpose of models.

• Establish and manage ongoing model performance monitoring processes, including reporting on model performance, stability, and data quality.

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs) for model governance effectiveness.

• Ensure comprehensive and clear documentation exists for all models, including model purpose, assumptions, limitations, data sources, and methodologies.

• Prepare status updates on model risk and governance status for senior management, model risk management group, model risk steering committee, and governance councils.

What experience you need 

• Education: Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as Finance, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, or a related discipline. Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., FRM, CFA) preferred.

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in model risk management, model governance, or model validation within a financial institution or a highly regulated industry.

• Minimum 5-10+ years experience in Data science techniques with deep understanding of credit risk modelling techniques and ideally specific Data science model development experience developing models across the credit lifecycle

• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing model governance frameworks.

• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements related to model risk management. 

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong attention to detail.

• Solid understanding of various model types (e.g., credit risk, market risk, operational risk, ALM, pricing models).

• Proficiency in data analysis tools and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SAS) is a plus.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences.

• Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

What could set you apart 

• Data governance certifications

• Experience working in Credit Risk roles in Banking, Finance, Telco, Utility sectors

• Experience in analytics and Responsible AI implementation and solutions

• Mentoring or leading teams of model and data governance specialists or managers and dealing with Internal Senior Execs and External Regulators

We know great things happen when teams connect. Our schedule is built around 4 days of high-impact, in-office collaboration (Monday–Thursday), paired with Friday Flexibility to wrap up your week remotely. 

We are proud to hold a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We welcome people of all backgrounds, knowing that diverse perspectives spark the innovation we need to win.