[Hiring] Senior Manager - Machine Learning Underwriting/Credit Model Risk @Affirm

Role Description

We're looking for a sharp, driven quantitative professional to join our dynamic Model Risk Management (MRM) team. In this role, you will oversee the underwriting and credit risk validation sector - the most critical pillar of Affirm’s MRM framework. This is a unique position designed for a seasoned technical leader who can build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team while remaining deeply hands-on, personally executing validations of our most complex machine learning models.

You'll collaborate across the company to shape a best-in-class risk framework, ensuring our models are robust, reliable, and ready for the future. If you're passionate about the intersection of finance, credit risk, and data science, this role is for you.

• Sector Leadership & Team Management: Oversee the underwriting and credit risk validation sector. Lead, mentor, and manage a team of talented quantitative professionals while setting the strategic direction for this critical risk domain.
• Hands-On Model Validation: Execute rigorous, independent validations of sophisticated machine learning models across underwriting and credit risk management.
• Technical Review: Evaluate conceptual soundness, data integrity, and performance stability through comprehensive testing, in-depth reviews, and continuous monitoring to ensure model accuracy.
• Identification & Remediation: Detect critical model weaknesses and identify areas for improvement; collaborate with model owners and developers to track and resolve validation findings.
• Framework Enhancement: Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to implement and refine the enterprise-wide Model Risk Management (MRM) framework, ensuring it remains robust and innovative.
• Audit & Compliance: Coordinate with Accounting, Internal Controls, and Compliance teams to ensure all model activities meet or exceed internal standards and regulatory expectations.

Qualifications

• 9+ years of professional experience in a highly technical role, such as model development, model validation, or quantitative analytics.
• Deep understanding of machine learning modeling, underwriting, and credit risk management.
• Advanced ability to script in Python and expertise in using SQL to manipulate and analyze large-scale, complex datasets.
• Proven track record of hiring, managing, and mentoring quantitative teams.
• A BS, MS, or PhD in a quantitative discipline such as Statistics, Quantitative Finance, Mathematics, or Data Science.
• A natural problem-solver with a meticulous eye for detail, a deep curiosity regarding model mechanics, and sharp critical-thinking skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven ability to distill and translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.

Requirements

• Pay Grade - Q
• Equity Grade - 7
• CAN base pay range per year: $201,000 - $261,000
• Remote-first with flexibility built in

Benefits

• Health coverage at no cost: We cover 100% of premiums for employees and their dependents.
• Spending stipends: Monthly stipends support your tech setup, and the ability to choose health and wellness options that are right for you.
• Time off to recharge: Flexible time off and generous holiday calendars help you rest when you need to.
• Own a piece of what you build: Our employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) lets you buy Affirm stock at a discount.