Thubelihle Khumalo
Senior Quantitative Analyst: Credit and Impairments
Sandton,GP
Summary
Results-oriented quantitative analyst with over five years of experience in developing, monitoring, and validating robust credit models within the banking sector. Recognized for analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and a methodical approach to problem-solving, consistently delivering high-quality work under pressure while maintaining excellent time management. Expertise in translating complex data into actionable insights fosters a commitment to continuous improvement and adds measurable value to teams and projects. A strong belief in strategic planning as a key to success enables effective anticipation of challenges and navigation through them, with a keen eagerness to leverage industry knowledge to support organizational goals and drive performance improvement.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Quantitative Analyst: Credit and Impairments
Old Mutual Finance
01.2025 - Current
- Designing and implementing next-generation IFRS 9/CECL models using machine learning, macroeconomic scenarios, and non-linear risk dynamics while ensuring regulatory compliance. Playing a key role in developing and refining credit impairment models, enhancing their performance and precision.
- Establishing model risk frameworks including challenger models, sensitivity analyses, and back-testing procedures to ensure accuracy across economic cycles.
- Developing approaches to minimize capital requirements through PD/LGD/EAD optimization and portfolio segmentation while maintaining risk sensitivity.
- Designing next-gen data pipelines requirements for impairment calculations with real-time credit indicators, alternative data, and automated quality controls.
- Translate complex modelling concepts into business insights for Stakeholder Education through knowledge shares and executive briefings.
- Improved financial models by integrating advanced statistical techniques and programming languages.
- Evaluated portfolio performance through rigorous back-testing, ensuring adherence to risk management guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Identified potential areas of improvement within existing analytical frameworks by conducting gap analyses and benchmarking studies against industry best practices.
Quantitative Analyst: CIB Models
ABSA Group
06.2023 - 01.2025
- Spearheading research on advanced model development techniques and data handling strategies to drive innovation.
- Streamlined data processing tasks with the implementation of efficient algorithms and programming languages such as Python and R.
- Participated in ongoing professional development activities to stay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies related to quantitative finance.
- Developed and maintained documentation for quantitative models and processes, facilitating transparency and regulatory compliance.
- Enhanced financial models by implementing advanced quantitative techniques and statistical analysis methods.
- Generated insightful reports for stakeholders by analyzing large sets of financial data using tools like SQL and PowerBI.
- Implemented machine learning techniques in predictive modeling projects, resulting in improved forecast accuracy and efficiency.
MRPC Execution Analyst
ABSA Group
09.2022 - 05.2023
- Led the execution of mid-month and month-end impairment runs and regulatory reporting for automated models.
- Drove model deployment initiatives on UAT platforms, ensuring flawless transition to production environments.
- Partnered with model monitoring, IVU, and model owners to guarantee high-standard automation execution.
- Streamlined model monitoring tasks, accelerating efficiency within the MRPC BAU Model Monitoring Enablement and Implementation team.
- Created detailed test documentation to validate and verify the accuracy and effectiveness of model automation.
- Enhanced team collaboration by providing clear communication of complex findings through visualizations and reports.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvement and increased efficiency.
- Improved internal knowledge sharing by developing comprehensive documentation outlining standard operating procedures for various tasks.
- Increased efficiency by streamlining data analysis processes and implementing automation tools.
Group Risk Graduate
ABSA Group
02.2021 - 08.2022
- Automated critical model monitoring processes, improving operational speed and accuracy for the MRPC team.
- Conducted model validations and produced precise documentation within the Independent Validation Unit (IVU).
- Executed data implementation tests on the SAS platform, collaborating with the ARO Risk team.
- Led a cross-functional graduate project, delivering strategic insights and actionable recommendations.
- Presented research findings and strategic solutions to enhance business processes.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Junior Specialist Risk
ABSA Group
07.2020 - 12.2020
- Conducted in-depth research and analysis to solve complex business challenges.
- Delivered detailed findings and strategic recommendations to cross-functional teams, including Absa and NWU BMI personnel.
- Developed and implemented algorithms in SAS, driving improvements in risk management processes.
- Provided expert recommendations to address and resolve critical business problems.
- Designed engaging presentations for internal stakeholders highlighting key data points relevant to project objectives or departmental goals.
- Utilized strong communication skills to present findings and recommendations to senior management, influencing decision-making processes.
- Contributed to product development efforts by conducting market research, analyzing consumer trends, and providing valuable insights for improvement.
Finance Intern
Unilever
06.2018 - 07.2018
- Completed a specialized finance project focused on gaining insights into Unilever's financial operations (details confidential).
- Gained exposure to core finance functions and internal processes, supporting cross-departmental collaboration.
Finance Intern
Unilever
01.2018 - 02.2018
- Identified and proposed cost-effective solutions for sourcing raw materials essential to the production process, improving procurement efficiency.
- Collaborated with supply chain teams to analyze current costs and workflows, while partnering with customer development teams to align sourcing strategies with consumer preferences.
CIB Front Office Intern
Standard Bank
06.2017 - 07.2017
- Conducted targeted research to address key business challenges, delivering actionable insights for the project team.
- Collaborated with a team of interns to develop solutions, culminating in a formal presentation of findings to senior stakeholders.
- Provided strategic recommendations and detailed reports based on thorough research and analysis.
Education
Master of Science - Business Mathematics and Informatics: Business Analytics specialisation
North-West University
Potchefstroom, South Africa01.2020
Bachelor of Science Honours - Business Analytics (Data mining)
North-West University
Potchefstroom, South Africa01.2019
Bachelor of Science - Quantitative Risk Management
North-West University
Potchefstroom, South Africa01.2018
Skills
Programming in SAS, R, Python, C#, and VBA
References
Available upon request.
Affiliations
- BASE SAS Certified (2022)
- ACTUARIAL SOCIETY OF SOUTH AFRICA (ASSA) Member since Jan 2018
- ABSIP NWU STUDENT CHAPTER Former deputy secretary (2017)
- GOLDEN KEY HONOURS SOCIETY Member since Mar 2016
Certification
Base SAS
Timeline
Senior Quantitative Analyst: Credit and Impairments
Old Mutual Finance
01.2025 - Current
Quantitative Analyst: CIB Models
ABSA Group
06.2023 - 01.2025
MRPC Execution Analyst
ABSA Group
09.2022 - 05.2023
Group Risk Graduate
ABSA Group
02.2021 - 08.2022
Junior Specialist Risk
ABSA Group
07.2020 - 12.2020
Finance Intern
Unilever
06.2018 - 07.2018
Finance Intern
Unilever
01.2018 - 02.2018
CIB Front Office Intern
Standard Bank
06.2017 - 07.2017
Master of Science - Business Mathematics and Informatics: Business Analytics specialisation
North-West University
Bachelor of Science Honours - Business Analytics (Data mining)
North-West University
Bachelor of Science - Quantitative Risk Management
North-West University