At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative decision science strategies and models for responsible lending.
- Company: Join Secure Trust Bank, a forward-thinking institution transforming lending through data and analytics.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on curiosity and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of lending decisions and make a real impact on customer outcomes.
- Qualifications: Experience in credit risk modelling and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
About The Role
Help shape the future of responsible lending. At Secure Trust Bank, we are transforming how we make lending decisions through data, analytics and technology. We are looking for a Head of Decision Science to build and lead a modern capability that brings together deep credit expertise, advanced analytics, innovative modelling and automation. Your work will directly influence how we make responsible lending decisions, support our customers and deliver sustainable commercial growth. This is a senior leadership opportunity with real scope to shape what comes next. You will inherit an established model estate while setting the future direction for our scorecards, affordability models, predictive analytics and decisioning capabilities.
You will be a strategic leader, but you will also remain sufficiently close to the technical detail to challenge thinking, solve complex problems and ensure our analytics translate into meaningful outcomes.
What you will be doing
- Shape our Decision Science strategy: You will establish the technical direction, development standards and delivery roadmap for Decision Science. You will assess where existing models can be optimised, identify where redevelopment will create value and help us build a more scalable, automated and future-focused capability.
- Develop models that make a difference: You will lead the development and continuous improvement of application and behavioural scorecards across prime and near-prime consumer lending, existing-customer and customer management models, affordability and responsible lending models, and predictive solutions covering areas such as propensity, profitability, forecasting, segmentation and next-best action. Champion and challenger approaches that support ongoing optimisation. You will also explore where machine learning, AI and alternative modelling techniques can add genuine value, while maintaining appropriate explainability, control and governance.
- Modernise how we work: Working in partnership with Technology and Data colleagues, you will help modernise our analytical environment through greater use of Python, SQL and contemporary tooling. You will establish reusable modelling frameworks, improve version control and lifecycle management, and increase automation across model development, testing, monitoring and reporting.
- Connect analytics with commercial decisions: Your focus will extend beyond building technically excellent models. You will make sure our analytical work addresses real business challenges and translates into practical lending strategies. Working closely with Credit Strategy, Product, Finance, Operations, Technology and Data, you will identify opportunities to improve customer outcomes, risk performance and commercial returns. You will also turn complex analytical findings into clear recommendations that senior stakeholders can confidently act on.
- Build an outstanding team: You will build, lead and develop a high-performing Decision Science function with a strong combination of credit, statistical, technical and commercial expertise. You will create an environment where people can be curious, experiment thoughtfully, challenge constructively and continue developing their careers. Your leadership will help us build sustainable capability across the team rather than depending on a small number of individual specialists.
What will help you succeed
We are looking for an experienced Decision Science or credit modelling leader who combines technical credibility with commercial judgement and inclusive, people-focused leadership. You are likely to bring:
- Substantial experience in credit risk modelling or Decision Science within consumer lending.
- Strong experience developing application or behavioural scorecards in prime, near-prime or a comparable lending environment.
- Experience of behavioural modelling, customer management decisioning, affordability modelling or related predictive solutions.
- A strong understanding of model development, calibration, segmentation, monitoring and optimisation.
- Advanced capability in Python, SQL or equivalent analytical tools.
- Experience improving modelling environments through automation, standardisation or modern engineering practices.
- A sound understanding of model governance, documentation, monitoring and independent validation in a regulated environment.
- The ability to translate complex analysis into practical strategies and clear commercial recommendations.
- Leadership experience, including developing, coaching or mentoring analytical colleagues.
- The confidence and communication skills to work effectively with senior stakeholders across technical and non-technical disciplines.
A degree or equivalent experience in a quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Operational Research, Data Science, Computer Science or Engineering would be valuable. Postgraduate study or professional qualifications are welcome, but they are not essential.
The kind of leader we are looking for
You will be someone who:
- Balances analytical depth with sound commercial judgement.
- Can move confidently between strategic leadership and detailed technical challenge.
- Focuses on solving meaningful problems rather than building models in isolation.
- Makes complex ideas clear and accessible to different audiences.
- Understands the balance between sophistication, explainability, control and value.
- Creates momentum while maintaining high standards.
- Encourages curiosity, collaboration and constructive challenge.
- Is passionate about developing people and building lasting capability.
- Takes a thoughtful and responsible approach to automation, machine learning and AI.
Why join us?
You will have the opportunity to shape a modern Decision Science function that directly connects advanced analytics with lending decisions, customer outcomes and sustainable growth. You will influence our model strategy, modernise our tools and ways of working, strengthen monitoring and governance, and build a team equipped to keep improving how we make decisions. If you are excited by the opportunity but do not meet every point listed, we would still encourage you to apply. We recognise that talented people build their expertise through different career paths, and we are interested in the experience, perspective and potential you could bring.
Head of Decision Science in Solihull employer: Secure Trust Bank
At Secure Trust Bank, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values our employees as our greatest asset. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including 25 days of annual leave and a monthly wellbeing hour, we foster a collaborative and flexible work culture that encourages professional development and career progression. Join us in Solihull, Manchester, or Cardiff, and be part of a purpose-driven organisation where your contributions directly impact responsible lending and customer outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Decision Science in Solihull
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Secure Trust Bank. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Decision Science in Solihull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Secure Trust Bank.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Secure Trust Bank's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Secure Trust Bank
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Secure Trust Bank.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Secure Trust Bank will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Secure Trust Bank employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
