Yolanda Stander
About Yolanda Stander
Yolanda Stander serves as the Head of Model Development for IFRS 9 and Stress Testing at Investec, where she has worked since 2016. With extensive experience in quantitative analysis and model development, she has held key roles at various financial institutions, including Standard Bank and Rand Merchant Bank.
Current Role at Investec
Yolanda Stander serves as the Head of Model Development: IFRS 9 and Stress Testing at Investec since 2016. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of models related to IFRS 9, which includes the Expected Credit Loss (ECL) calculator used for deriving impairments across all stages. She collaborates closely with the IT team to ensure the effective integration of these models into production. Additionally, she leads the development of Point-in-Time Probability of Default (PIT PD) term structure models and lifetime Loss Given Default (LGD) and Exposure at Default (EAD) models.
Previous Experience at Standard Bank
Before joining Investec, Yolanda Stander worked at Standard Bank in the Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) division as the Head of Quantitative Analysts, Model Development from 2007 to 2011. During her four years in this role, she was based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Her responsibilities included leading a team focused on developing quantitative models to support the bank's risk management and regulatory compliance efforts.
Educational Background
Yolanda Stander has an extensive academic background in mathematical statistics and econometrics. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science from Rand Afrikaans University, followed by a Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics in 1997. She furthered her studies at the University of the Witwatersrand, obtaining a Master of Science (MSc). Additionally, she completed another Master of Science (MSc) at the University of Johannesburg and achieved a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Econometrics from the same institution between 2007 and 2012.
Contributions to Stress Testing Framework
At Investec, Yolanda Stander developed a comprehensive stress testing framework that encompasses all Basel parameters. This framework is critical for assessing the bank's resilience under various economic scenarios. She is also responsible for defining stress scenario narratives, focusing on evolving stories rather than isolated macroeconomic stresses. Her work ensures that the stress testing process aligns with regulatory requirements and internal risk management practices.
Collaboration and Governance Oversight
Yolanda Stander plays a key role in collaborating with the Economics team to ensure the economic validity of risk drivers used in models. She communicates and interacts with senior stakeholders and executives to facilitate understanding and buy-in for the models developed. Furthermore, she oversees the governance process for IFRS 9 models, ensuring compliance with established protocols and standards within the organization.