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Model Validation Officer

Synovus Columbus, Georgia, United States

onsitefull-time
Posted Feb 12, 2026

Role & seniority: Senior/Lead Model Validation Analyst (independent validation of highly complex models enterprise-wide)

Stack/tools: SAS, R, Python; Microsoft Excel; data management and validation tooling; familiarity with ML/AI approaches and stress testing

Top 3 responsibilities

  • Independently validate high-impact models in line with regulatory guidance and model risk policies; challenge underlying assumptions, evidence, and results

  • Document findings, present observations to model owners/developers/users, and track remediation; communicate with Executive/Senior Management as appropriate

  • Conduct ongoing monitoring (back-testing, benchmarking), ensure proper implementation and usage of models, and oversee adherence to risk management procedures

Must-have skills

  • Strong statistical analysis and data modeling (multivariate, logistic regression, nonlinear modeling, ML/AI)

  • Model risk management knowledge and regulatory guidance familiarity

  • Proficiency in SAS/R/Python, Excel; solid database/file access skills

  • Ability to present complex technical information clearly; strong project management

Nice-to-haves

  • Experience mentoring junior staff; training others in validation and governance

  • Exposure to fraud monitoring, cybersecurity, credit/market/operational risk, pricing, regulatory reporting

  • Awareness of current modeling trends and emerging technologies

  • Location & work type: Location and work type not specified in the job descript

Full Description

Job Summary

Performs independent validation activities on highly complex models enterprise-wide, including Machine Learning and other Artificial Intelligence approaches, that support Synovus key strategic objectives. Complies with regulatory guidance and the Synovus Model Risk Management policy while providing effective challenge and verification that models are performing as expected in line with their design objectives and business uses.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Works closely with model owners, developers, and users to independently perform comprehensive validations of high impact models in compliance with regulatory guidance and Synovus policies and procedures. The scope of validation may include a review and effective challenge of the underlying assumptions, theory, empirical evidence, implementation, limitations, and results and context of reports of the model being validated.
  • With minimal guidance from the Director or more senior analysts, validates models and analytical tools in the areas of fraud monitoring, cybersecurity, credit scoring, marketing, BSA/AML/OFAC and Consumer Compliance, market risk, operational risk, strategic risk, finance and accounting, loan pricing, deposit pricing, loan valuation, and capital adequacy to include stress testing (not all inclusive).
  • Documents and presents observations to model owners, developers, and users; recommends management action plans and tracks remediation progress. Presents results to Executive or Senior Management, as appropriate.
  • Conducts ongoing monitoring such as confirming that models are appropriately implemented, used, and performing as intended; performs outcome analysis (such as back-testing and benchmarking).
  • Provides oversight and execution to the model risk management policies and procedures for the organization.
  • Consults with model owners, developers, and users on model development including the design of effective model operational controls.
  • Understands how model validation efforts support quantitative and qualitative reporting activities for data driven business decisions, as well as regulatory and risk compliance.
  • Reviews the maintenance of existing models and enhancements implemented over time to mitigate negative feedback from regulators.
  • Remains current on modeling trends, techniques, tools and best practices. Identifies emerging trends in technology as opportunities for future growth and development. Mentors less experienced team members in validation, the development and design of predictive models, and analyzing data as requested.
  • Participates in activities and maintaining documentation related to developing innovations that enhance model validation and governance processes.
  • Serves as subject-matter-expert resource by providing training/guidance to less experienced team members.
  • Each team member is expected to be aware of risk within their functional area. This includes observing all policies, procedures, laws, regulations and risk limits specific to their role. Additionally, they should raise and report known or suspected violations to the appropriate Company authority in a timely fashion.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

The information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Synovus is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

Minimum Education

Bachelor's degree in a quantitative discipline such as Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or Economics or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Minimum Experience

  • 7-10 years of related work experience, or relevant Master's degree with five years of related work experience (three if in financial services), or Ph.D. in relevant quantitative discipline with three years of related work experience in financial services

* Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

    • Specialized training and work experience with a very strong background of
    • statistical analysis and data modeling to include multivariate analysis,
    • logistic regression, non-linear modeling, machine learning and other
    • artificial intelligence approaches, and similar techniques
    • Knowledgeable of model risk management and associated regulatory requirements
    • and guidance
    • Strong proficiency in programming tools SAS/R/Phython, and Microsoft Excel
    • High degree of knowledge of database management and file access methods
    • Extensive experience in the application of structured analysis and technical
    • design techniques and experience using a wide range of interpretive analysis
    • tools
    • Ability to present and explain technical information in a way that
    • establishes rapport, persuades others and promotes understanding.
    • Strong project management skills
Model ValidationMachine LearningArtificial IntelligenceRegulatory GuidanceModel Risk ManagementStatistical AnalysisData ModelingMultivariate AnalysisLogistic RegressionNon-linear ModelingSASRPythonDatabase ManagementProject ManagementBack-testingmulti-location

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