AVP, Model Validation at Synchrony Costa Mesa, CA

Role Summary/Purpose

The AVP, Model Validation is responsible for model validation focusing on loss/reserve/recovery forecast, AML, collection and other models and ensuring they meet Model Risk Management policies, standards, procedures, and regulations such as SR 11-7. The role requires sufficient expertise to serve as a project lead and be accountable for validation results across a wide range of model categories under adequate technical supervision.

• Perform full scope end‑to‑end model reviews, annual reviews, and ongoing monitoring of model performance for both internally and vendor‑developed models (statistical/ML and non‑statistical).
• Lead and supervise full scope validation and other reviews, holding full accountability for validation quality and driving project timelines with minimal guidance.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to junior team members, facilitating continuous improvement and a supportive team environment.
• Conduct in‑depth analyses on model methodologies, assumptions, and performance trends using large datasets, identifying key model risks, limitations, and issues for in‑house and third‑party models.
• Maintain current knowledge of model development and validation practices in academic, regulatory, and financial services environments, offering technical consultation and process improvement to MRM.
• Support regulatory examinations and internal audits of the model validation process by preparing documentation, addressing inquiries, and assisting remediation.
• Collaborate with Synchrony functional teams to uncover, highlight, and identify model risk associated with models, maintaining relevant documentation and generating analytical reports.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned, and support model governance initiatives.

• Master’s degree (or foreign equivalent) in Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science or related quantitative field and 4+ years of experience in model development/validation in financial services, banking, or retail.
• Strong understanding and application of quantitative analysis methods for credit loss/reserve/recovery models, CECL, etc.
• Proficient programming skills with 4+ years of experience utilizing Python, Spark, SAS, SQL, AWS, Data Lake for statistical analysis and large data management.
• 4+ years of experience applying US regulatory requirements for Model Risk Management.

• Advanced knowledge of regulatory requirements for Model Risk Management (SR 11‑7, OCC 2011‑12, etc.) and CCAR.
• 5+ years of proven experience in Model Risk Management or model development in financial services, including analytic, governance, or credit disciplines.
• Solid knowledge of credit loss models such as loss forecasting (PD/LGD/EAD, CECL, roll rate, etc.), stress testing, allowance, AML, and collection models.
• Project management experience with demonstrated ability to develop actionable plans, execute, and meet timeline‑sensitive deliverables.
• Strong focus on accuracy and extreme attention to detail.
• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills.

$95,000 – $160,000 USD annually, eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance. Salaries are adjusted according to market in CA, NY Metro, and Seattle.

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.