Counterparty Credit Model Risk Management (IMM) - Vice President

Navigating Advanced Model Risk: A Strategic Opportunity at Morgan Stanley

Morgan Stanley, a leading global financial services firm, presents a compelling opportunity for seasoned quantitative professionals to join its esteemed Model Risk Management team as a Vice President, specializing in Counterparty Credit Model Risk Management (IMM). Based in London, this role offers a unique platform to leverage advanced analytical skills, contribute to critical firm-wide risk controls, and shape the future of financial modeling in a dynamic environment.

This review aims to provide potential candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and key considerations associated with this pivotal position, guiding them in their career discernment.

Advantages for Aspiring Leaders in Quantitative Risk:

• Strategic Impact and High Visibility: As a Vice President, you will play a crucial role in protecting Morgan Stanley from significant financial exposures by independently validating models that underpin critical business decisions. Your work directly contributes to the firm's stability and regulatory compliance. The role involves regular interaction with senior management, governance committees, and internal/external auditors, providing significant exposure and influence within the firm and across the industry.
• Deep Technical Engagement and Continuous Learning: This position is at the forefront of quantitative finance. You will be responsible for leading validation activities for the complex IMM model suite, assessing model accuracy and robustness under diverse market conditions. The breadth of models covered—from derivative pricing across various asset classes to counterparty credit risk (XVA/IMM), credit risk (IRB), market risk (IMA), operational risk, and capital/liquidity stress tests—ensures continuous intellectual challenge and development in cutting-edge methodologies.
• Leadership and Influence: Beyond technical validation, the role explicitly requires proven experience in managing a small team of quants. You will lead validation efforts, prioritize the Book of Work, and foster a culture of technical excellence. Your ability to articulate complex concepts, challenge ideas, and gain consensus will be vital, offering a clear pathway to develop strong leadership and "management by influence" skills within a highly analytical domain.
• Global Collaboration and Network Expansion: The London-based team collaborates extensively with Model Risk Management professionals across global hubs including New York, Budapest, Frankfurt, Mumbai, and Tokyo. This global connectivity offers an unparalleled opportunity to work with diverse experts, exchange knowledge, and build a truly international professional network within a top-tier financial institution.
• Career Growth at a Prestigious Firm: Morgan Stanley is renowned for providing a superior foundation for professional careers. The firm emphasizes learning, achievement, and growth, supported by values rooted in integrity, excellence, and strong team ethic. A Vice President role here is a significant step, signaling a commitment to advanced expertise and leadership within the financial services industry.
• Supportive and Flexible Work Culture: Morgan Stanley explicitly states its commitment to a supportive and inclusive environment, with a philosophy that balances personal lifestyles and needs. The mention of flexible working opportunities underscores the firm's dedication to empowering employees and fostering a culture where individuals can maximize their full potential.

Key Considerations for Potential Candidates:

• Exceptional Quantitative Acumen is Non-Negotiable: The role demands a Master's or Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in a highly quantitative field such as Finance, Mathematics, or Physics. Candidates must possess a strong understanding of counterparty credit risk modeling frameworks, preferably gained within a financial institution, and be adept at facing regulatory requests. A deep understanding of how model risks impact the business and how business changes impact models is also critical.
• Advanced Technical and Programming Skills: Proficiency in relevant technical and programming skills is essential for conducting independent testing and deep model analysis. While specific languages aren't listed, a strong background in quantitative programming is implied for complex model validation.
• Mastery of Communication and Stakeholder Management: The ability to translate highly complex quantitative findings into clear, concise, and actionable insights for diverse audiences—from technical quants to senior management and regulators—is paramount. Confidence in challenging assumptions and building consensus among various stakeholders is also critical.
• Thriving in a Fast-Paced, Multi-Priority Environment: This position is suited for individuals who are comfortable balancing multiple high-priority deliverables and navigating a dynamic work environment. An interest in working efficiently under pressure and adapting to evolving market conditions is crucial for success in this role.
• Regulatory Engagement and Diligence: A significant part of the role involves engaging with internal and external auditors and participating in regulatory meetings. Candidates should be prepared for the rigor and detailed attention required for such interactions, ensuring accurate and timely submissions and proactive participation.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for a highly analytical and experienced quantitative professional with a passion for model risk management. If you possess a robust academic background, significant experience in counterparty credit risk modeling, proven leadership capabilities, and exceptional communication skills, this Vice President role at Morgan Stanley offers a challenging and rewarding career path within a world-class financial institution.

Embark on a journey where your expertise directly contributes to global financial stability and your career development is continuously fostered.