Director, Model Risk Audit

SMBC Group; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

SMBC Group is seeking an Audit Director based in Charlotte, NC, to lead model risk audits and support governance in their Americas Division. The role emphasizes improving internal controls, particularly in AI and CCAR models.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience (7-10 years) in banking or consulting, with robust auditing skills and a relevant advanced degree. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential to engage with stakeholders effectively.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7-10 years’ experience in banking/finance or consulting in 2nd/3rd line of defense roles.
• At least 4 years of audit experience with internal controls and audit techniques.
• Advanced Degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in relevant fields.

Responsibilities

• Lead and refine audit program for financial and non-financial risk models.
• Act as Auditor-in-Charge for audits from inception to completion.
• Conduct audits and ensure compliance with IIA Standards.
• Communicate audit strategies and results effectively to stakeholders.
• Support development of model risk audit capabilities.

Skills

AI model risk management

CCAR model governance

Internal audit techniques

Communication skills

Education

Advanced Degree in Finance, STEM or quantitative field

Job description

Role Description

SMBC is looking for an experienced Audit Director who will lead model and model risk audits from the 3LOD and partner with business stakeholders to improve company’s governance, risk management and internal controls in model risk management in SMBC Americas Division. The focus is review of Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Model Risk management framework, and/or Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (CCAR) model governance and controls.

Role Objectives: Delivery

• Support IAD Management and Team Lead in refining and executing the broad audit program that covers all models used in financial and non-financial risk management across SMBC Americas Division.
• Assist Model Audit Team Lead with the delivery and execution of IAD's model audit plan and assurance responsibilities. Provide support in preparation of management reports and regulatory presentation.
• Act as Auditor‑in‑Charge (AIC) and assistant to model audit Team Lead to direct and supervise audits from inception to completion including planning, testing, issue identification, workpaper review and reporting.
• Conduct or lead internal audits as auditor in charge and issue validation according to IIA Standards and internal IAD procedures within prescribed timeframes to support timely management review. Demonstrate a deep understanding of internal audit techniques and audit principles as well as ability to apply internal requirements.
• Ensure written and verbal communication of ACRs and individual audit report(s) as assigned conform with IAD NY methodology and incorporate sound judgment.
• Oversee and participate in quarterly and annual continuous monitoring / risk assessment process to identify business trends and changes in the business risk profile, and when necessary, propose updates to the audit plan to reflect them.
• Identify business process improvement opportunities in assigned audit areas by proposing corrective actions.
• As needed, assist with special projects related to IAD strategic initiatives.

Role Objectives: Interpersonal

• Lead the establishment of model risk audit capabilities in the Charlotte office, including developing audit coverage, building team expertise, and enhancing methodologies to support IAD’s strategic objectives.
• Effectively communicate with stakeholders and audit senior management to clearly articulate audit strategy, testing results and corrective measures.
• Develop, promote and maintain a collaborative and strong working relationship with AD business heads, external auditors, and regulators.
• Support Risk and Lending Business and Functional Head and Model Audit Team Lead to provide support, coaching, and feedback to audit team which may include other junior team members or co-sourced internal audit professionals.
• Demonstrate accountability, ownership and sense of diligence over individual tasks and assigned audit areas with limited supervision.

Role Objectives: Expertise

• Experience and deep knowledge of 1) AI model risk management and controls and 2) CCAR model and governance framework.
• Excellent communication, presentation and professional skills including the ability to interact effectively at all levels within the organization.
• Understanding of applicable regulatory standards (including Model Risk, SR 26‑2 and SR 11‑7).

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum of 7‑10 years’ experience in the banking and finance industry or consulting companies, preferably in the 2nd and/or 3rd line of defense roles for model risk.
• At least 4 years of hands‑on audit experience and familiarity with audit techniques, internal controls, and workpaper standards.
• Advanced Degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Finance, STEM or other quantitative field.

SMBC provides reasonable accommodations during candidacy for applicants with disabilities consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please let us know at [e-mail].