Job Summary
The Senior Manager (Data Management & Model Development)-Research will provide technical leadership for the Bank’s research and analytical production, with a strong focus on data management, predictive analytics, and model development. The role is responsible for designing, developing, deploying and maintaining advanced models that support macroeconomic analysis and key risk categories (business/strategy, credit, market, liquidity, operational, etc.) within the Bank’s Enterprise Risk Management framework. The incumbent will ensure that the Bank’s data and model governance frameworks are robust, compliant with regulatory standards, and aligned with Afreximbank’s strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Analytical Production
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Contribute to the design and enhancement of the Bank’s flagship analytical publications, including the African Trade and Economic Outlook (AETO), African Trade Report (ATR), and Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA).
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Work with researchers, economists, financial analysts and IT colleagues to integrate robust quantitative modelling into research outputs and trade finance insights.
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Provide advanced analytical input to support evidence-based decision-making across the Bank.
Data Management & Advanced Analytics
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Lead the development and implementation of data management strategies, including data collection, cleaning, validation, storage and governance.
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Build and maintain data architectures that support large-scale, structured and unstructured data relevant to trade finance, macroeconomics, markets and customer behaviour.
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Develop predictive models and algorithms to forecast macro trends, assess risk and identify opportunities in trade finance.
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Integrate AI, machine learning and advanced analytics into economic and financial modelling to strengthen scenario analysis and forecasting.
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Ensure secure, compliant and high-quality data environments, including adherence to data governance and data security protocols.
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Communicate findings via dashboards, visualisations and reports for senior stakeholders.
Model Development & Governance
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Lead the design, development, backtesting, validation and documentation of models across risk categories (e.g. credit, market, liquidity, operational).
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Coordinate with Model Owners, Approvers, Users and the Internal Model Validation Unit to ensure models meet business, risk and regulatory requirements.
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Develop and implement monitoring and post-implementation review (PIR) frameworks to track model performance, usage and fitness-for-purpose.
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Undertake periodic recalibration, realignment and redevelopment of models to reflect evolving market conditions and risk profiles.
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Engage with external auditors and third-party service providers as needed on model-related matters.
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Stay up to date with advances in modelling and analytics, integrating innovative approaches where appropriate.
Training & Stakeholder Support
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Provide training and guidance to end-users on interpreting and applying models across the Bank.
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Act as a key subject-matter expert on data, models and analytics, supporting functions across the Group and subsidiaries.
Compliance & Risk
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Ensure all models and data processes comply with relevant regulatory requirements and internal risk policies.
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Understand and adhere to the Bank’s AML, Regulatory and Conduct Compliance policies (Staff Handbook, AML/CFT/CPF, Conflicts of Interest, Anti-Bribery & Corruption, Insider Trading).
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Document and escalate risks and issues related to model development, deployment and data usage.
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Complete all mandatory compliance training and contribute to a strong culture of compliance across the Bank.
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum Qualifications
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PhD in Economics, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, Econometrics, Statistics, Engineering, or another quantitative discipline.
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Strong coding skills and experience using statistical and programming languages such as R, Python, SQL, etc.
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Proven experience working with and creating data architectures.
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In-depth knowledge of machine learning techniques (e.g. clustering, decision trees, neural networks) and their practical applicability.
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Strong grounding in advanced statistical techniques (regression, distributions, statistical tests) and their applied use in finance and economics.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical material to non-technical stakeholders.
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Demonstrated drive to continuously learn and master new modelling tools, techniques and technologies.
Years & Nature of Experience
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12 years of proven banking or financial sector experience in data management, model development and analytics.
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Significant experience developing, implementing and maintaining risk and economic models within an enterprise risk or research context.
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Experience working with cross-functional teams (risk, finance, IT, research, business units) to deliver analytic and model-based solutions.
Technical & Behavioural Competencies
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Deep expertise in quantitative modelling, risk analytics and macroeconomic analysis.
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Strong leadership skills with the ability to coordinate multiple specialist teams and act as the technical escalation point.
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Ability to propose innovative, high-impact solutions to complex problems.
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Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders, including external parties.
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Comprehensive understanding of Afreximbank’s mandate, African trade and macroeconomic landscape.
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Embodiment of Afreximbank’s core values:
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Commitment to Africa and empowerment of Africans
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Uncompromising integrity
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Passion for learning and drive
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Teamwork
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Trust and respect for the individual
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Innovation, excellence and flexibility
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Professionalism and responsiveness
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How to Apply
Interested candidates who wish to apply for this position are invited to send their CV and supporting documents to: sfraser@caglobalint.com
Please indicate “Senior Manager, Research (Data Management & Model Development)” in the subject line of your email.