Head of Decision Science

About The RoleHelp shape the future of responsible lendingAt 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 doingShape our Decision Science strategyYou 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 differenceYou will lead the development and continuous improvement of:Application and behavioural scorecards across prime and near-prime consumer lendingExisting-customer and customer management modelsAffordability and responsible lending modelsPredictive solutions covering areas such as propensity, profitability, forecasting, segmentation and next-best actionChampion and challenger approaches that support ongoing optimisationYou 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 workWorking 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 decisionsYour 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 teamYou 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 succeedWe 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 lendingStrong experience developing application or behavioural scorecards in prime, near-prime or a comparable lending environmentExperience of behavioural modelling, customer management decisioning, affordability modelling or related predictive solutionsA strong understanding of model development, calibration, segmentation, monitoring and optimisationAdvanced capability in Python, SQL or equivalent analytical toolsExperience improving modelling environments through automation, standardisation or modern engineering practicesA sound understanding of model governance, documentation, monitoring and independent validation in a regulated environmentThe ability to translate complex analysis into practical strategies and clear commercial recommendationsLeadership experience, including developing, coaching or mentoring analytical colleaguesThe 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 forYou will be someone who:Balances analytical depth with sound commercial judgementCan move confidently between strategic leadership and detailed technical challengeFocuses on solving meaningful problems rather than building models in isolationMakes complex ideas clear and accessible to different audiencesUnderstands the balance between sophistication, explainability, control and valueCreates momentum while maintaining high standardsEncourages curiosity, collaboration and constructive challengeIs passionate about developing people and building lasting capabilityTakes 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.Notes/Brief for Recruitment Team:About The CompanyNot SpecifiedAll LocationsCardiff, London, Manchester, SolihullAll Locations is a required fieldAll DepartmentsRisk and ComplianceAll Departments is a required fieldAdvertising Salary:Competitive + Benefits Careers Site Advertising End DateNot SpecifiedContract TypePermanent