Director - Head of Model Governance

The Head of Model Governance will be responsible for leading the development and execution of a robust model governance framework across the Mizuho US Operations, including the Intermediate Holding Company (IHC). With an active inventory exceeding 250 models and an evolving framework closely aligned with SR 11-07, this senior leader will ensure the integrity, compliance, and effective management of all models. The role includes enhancing reporting capabilities, overseeing the model inventory via Archer, and fostering a strong risk-aware culture aligned with regulatory expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership in Model Governance: Develop, implement, and continuously improve the model governance framework, aligned with SR 11-07 and the evolving needs of the bank's US operations.
• Model Inventory Oversight: Oversee the management of the growing model inventory (>250 models) using Archer, ensuring accurate documentation, classification, lifecycle management, and tracking.
• Framework Enhancement & Evolution: Lead initiatives to advance the model governance framework, incorporating industry best practices, emerging risks, and regulatory requirements.
• Regulatory Compliance & Liaison: Maintain a strong understanding of SR 11-07 and related US regulatory standards; act as a primary point of contact for regulatory examinations, audits, and internal reviews related to model governance.
• Model Risk Monitoring & Reporting: Strengthen the model risk reporting infrastructure, identifying gaps and implementing enhancements to ensure clarity, transparency, and proactive risk management.
• Model Validation Collaboration: Partner with validation teams to facilitate independent review, validation, and performance assessment of models, ensuring compliance with governance standards.
• Policy Development & Enforcement: Establish, update, and enforce comprehensive model risk policies, standards, and procedures to ensure consistency and regulatory adherence.
• Risk Assessment & Issue Management: Oversee ongoing risk assessments, issue escalation, and remediation processes related to model activities and inventory.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate closely with model developers, owners, validation teams, and senior management to embed a strong model risk culture and governance practices.
• Technology & Tools Optimization: Utilize Archer and other relevant tools effectively to manage the model inventory, streamline workflows, and generate detailed reports.
• Training & Awareness: Lead organization-wide training and awareness programs to reinforce model governance standards and risk management practices.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Data Science, or related quantitative discipline; advanced degrees or professional credentials (e.g., FRM, CFA) preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in model risk management, model governance, or related roles within banking or financial services.
• Proven experience managing large and complex model inventories (>250 models).
• Deep understanding of SR 11-07, US banking regulations, and best practices in model risk management.
• Strong familiarity with Archer or similar model inventory management tools.
• Demonstrated success in evolving and improving model governance frameworks.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within Japanese banking operations or with international financial institutions in compliance roles.
• Knowledge of advanced analytic and machine learning models and their regulatory considerations.
• Experience in improving model risk reporting processes and dashboards.

Work Environment:

This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape and enhance the bank's model risk framework during a period of growth and change. You will collaborate across teams to establish best practices, promote a strong model risk culture, and support regulatory compliance in a dynamic setting. The ideal candidate will be proactive, strategic, and capable of balancing technical expertise with effective stakeholder communication.

The expected base salary ranges from $150,000 - $235,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications and licenses obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. In addition to salary and a generous employee benefits package, including Medical, Dental and 401K plans, successful candidates are also eligible to receive a discretionary bonus.