Model Governance, Specialist

Overview

The Model Risk Management (MRM) Team part of Vanguards second line of defense is seeking a quantitative model risk professional to support the independent oversight of models used across Vanguards Investment Management Group (IMG).

Vanguard is a global investment management firm with a mission to give investors the best chance for investment success. Through IMG Vanguard designs manages and oversees active and passive investment strategies across asset classes investment vehicles and geographies. These activities rely on a broad range of quantitative models including alpha and signal models portfolio construction and optimization models risk models trading models asset allocation models and AI/ML-enabled investment workflows.

In this role you will perform independent validation and effective challenge of investment models helping ensure that models are conceptually sound appropriately governed and fit for purpose. You will work closely with quantitative researchers data scientists portfolio managers model developers and technology partners providing credible challenge while building strong collaborative relationships across the business.

Beyond individual model reviews you will contribute to the continued evolution of Vanguards model risk management framework methodologies standards and practices across both traditional quantitative models and AI/ML-driven solutions.

Core Responsibilities

• Perform independent validation of investment models across major asset classes including alpha/signal models portfolio construction and optimization models risk models trading models asset allocation models and AI/ML-enabled investment workflows.
• Provide effective challenge of model assumptions methodologies data implementation controls limitations and performance monitoring frameworks.
• Produce high-quality validation reports and communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Develop and enhance validation methodologies procedures and testing approaches to support consistent and risk-based model oversight.
• Contribute to the design and enhancement of model risk management policies standards and procedures across the model lifecycle.
• Advise stakeholders on model risk governance validation expectations and emerging industry practices.
• Remain current on developments in quantitative investing model validation AI/ML and model governance.
• Partner effectively across investment technology risk and control functions.
• Participate in special projects and broader MRM initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD degree in a quantitative discipline such as Statistics Mathematics Computer Science Engineering Physics Finance Data Science or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience).
• 3 years of relevant experience ideally 7 years in model development quantitative research model validation model risk management or a related field.
• Experience in asset management investment research quantitative investing or financial services.
• Strong knowledge in one or more areas such as:

Equities

Fixed Income

Portfolio Construction & Optimization

Alpha/Signal Research

Risk Modeling

Machine Learning and AI Applications

• Experience developing testing reviewing or validating quantitative and/or AI/ML models.
• Programming experience in Python and/or similar analytical languages.
• Familiarity with cloud MLOps CI/CD or modern model development environments is preferred.
• Familiarity with third-party investment and risk platforms (e.g. Barra Axioma Aladdin) is a plus.
• Strong analytical communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated intellectual curiosity sound judgment and willingness to learn and evolve in a rapidly changing environment.
• Prior people leadership experience is a plus but not required.

Special Factors

Sponsorship

About Vanguard

At Vanguard we dont just have a missionwere on a mission.

To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning collaboration and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.

Required Experience:

IC