Assistant Manager, AI Independent Validation (Fintech)

TL;DR

Assistant Manager, AI Independent Validation (Data Science/ML): Performing independent review and validation of AI/GenAI models to ensure robustness and regulatory compliance with an accent on quantitative analysis and risk assessment. Focus on developing benchmark models, conducting technical reviews of model documentation, and identifying AI-specific risks in a regulated banking environment.

Location: Hybrid (Bristol, Halifax, Cardiff, Edinburgh or Leeds); must spend at least 40% of time in office

Salary: £57,150 - £63,500

Company

A leading UK financial services group rebooting its approach to finance through AI and innovative technology.

What you will do

• Perform independent validation and periodic reviews of AI and GenAI models to ensure they are robust, fair, and explainable.
• Develop benchmark models and conduct quantitative analysis and recoding using Python and GCP.
• Evaluate model documentation and infrastructure to ensure soundness from input to output.
• Raise validation challenges and follow through with owners until resolution.
• Provide actionable reporting on validation outcomes and AI risk assessments to senior leadership.
• Contribute to the improvement of AI validation frameworks and track emerging regulatory trends like the EU AI Act.

Requirements

• Professional experience in AI Model Development, Validation, or a quantitative role within financial services or regulated industries.
• A numerate degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a recent relevant PhD.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for evaluating complex AI systems.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex quantitative concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work proactively and independently to deliver high-quality outputs within timelines.
• Must be based in the UK and adhere to hybrid working expectations (minimum 2 days per week in office).

Nice to have

• Proficiency in Python and AI frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, LangChain, or LlamaIndex.
• Experience with SQL and cloud platforms like GCP Vertex AI, BigQuery, or Azure AI.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks including the EU AI Act, GDPR, and SS1/23.
• Theoretical or hands-on experience with GenAI techniques and methodologies.

Culture & Benefits

• Generous pension contribution of up to 15%.
• Annual performance-related bonus and share schemes including free shares.
• 28 days of holiday plus bank holidays.
• Comprehensive wellbeing initiatives and generous parental leave policies.
• Inclusive culture with strong commitments to diversity, equity, and workplace adjustments for disabilities.