Modellvaliderare

Modellvaliderare, or model validator, is a professional responsible for independently evaluating the quality, robustness, and governance of mathematical and statistical models used for decision making, risk assessment, pricing, or forecasting. The role is common in banks, insurers, asset managers, and consultancy firms, and forms a core part of model risk management and governance frameworks.

The main duties include conducting concept and methodology reviews, assessing data quality and suitability, and evaluating software implementation and reproducibility. A modellvaliderare performs backtesting and out-of-sample testing, sensitivity and scenario analyses, and benchmarking against alternative models. They check assumptions, limitations, and theoretical underpinnings, and examine how well a model integrates with processes, controls, and governance structures.

The outputs of validation are formal validation reports, risk ratings, and remediation recommendations. The validator communicates findings to model developers, risk management units, and senior committees, and may oversee or track corrective actions. They ensure documentation, version control, and traceability meet internal policies and external regulatory expectations, including model risk management standards.

Required skills include a strong quantitative background in statistics, mathematics, or engineering; programming ability for replication and testing; data management know-how; and clear communication for reporting. Familiarity with domains such as credit risk, market risk, pricing, or forecasting is common. Professionals often hold advanced degrees and complementary certifications (for example FRM, CFA, or MRMs) and pursue ongoing training to stay current with modeling techniques and regulatory developments.