Sales & Trading Talent Recruitment | Selby Jennings

Selby Jennings: A Specialist Talent Partner in Sales & Trading Recruitment

Selby Jennings is a leading Sales and Trading recruitment talent partner for financial sciences & services. Our global Sales and Trading team provides permanent, contract, and multi-hire recruitment solutions from our offices across three continents.

For nearly 20 years, clients and candidates have had peace of mind that their specialist Sales and Trading hiring process is in safe hands. With employment of securities, commodities, and financial service sales agents set to increase in the next ten years, competition and talent investment is expected to challenge businesses.

From streamlining processes and upskilling workforces, to staying cutting edge by employing flexible work models, our Sales and Trading recruiters advise enterprise leaders on when to strike and how. We also provide expert insight to Sales and Trading professionals on benchmarking salaries and benefits packages and assist them through their career moves.

Whether you’re interested in securing the very best Sales and Trading talent or you’re a Sales and Trading professional looking for a new role within this industry, the Selby Jennings’ Sales and Trading team connect exceptional talent to industry-leading clients.

If you're a Sales and Trading professional, please register your resume.

If you're looking for Sales & Trading talent, please register your vacancy today.

Benefits of working with Selby Jennings’ global Sales & Trading team

We are a specialist Sales and Trading talent partner. Among the many benefits of working with Selby Jennings’ global Sales and Trading team are:

Experience

We have nearly 20 years of experience as a leading Sales & Trading recruiter.

Network

A vast, global network of the best, in-demand professionals, working with the world’s largest financial institutions to innovative fintech start-ups and beyond.

Knowledge

Our award-winning talent specialists offer bespoke, tailored guidance on the latest hiring trends and industry news to help you achieve your goals.

At Selby Jennings, we are committed to nurturing long-standing partnerships, anchored in trust, integrity, and reciprocal growth. Our Sales and Trading headhunters offer tailored solutions designed to accommodate your unique needs, providing flexible hiring methodologies that complement your business goals. Whether your focus is on immediate fulfillment of critical Sales & Trading positions or devising strategic talent acquisition plans, our expertise and resources stand poised to deliver. Begin your journey by submitting your vacancy to us today.

Start the process of addressing your talent needs in Sales & Trading by completing our form today. Our professional team anticipates the opportunity to discuss how we can support your organization in meeting its Sales & Trading recruitment requirements effectively and proficiently.

Sales and Trading Jobs

In the ever-fluctuating world of finance, Sales and Trading professionals are pivotal. As markets become increasingly dynamic, individuals with these skills are in high demand. Aligning with Selby Jennings, an expert in Sales and Trading, could boost your career trajectory. Check our current Sales and Trading roles or submit your CV/resume, and we'll get in touch when an appropriate opportunity surfaces.

Senior Bond Prop Trader

Role: Develop and implement proprietary trading strategies for bonds to maximise profitability. Monitor and analyse market trends, economic indicators, and geopolitical events to identify trading opportunities. Execute trades in various bond markets, including government, corporate, and municipal bonds. Manage the bank's proprietary bond portfolio, ensuring optimal risk-adjusted returns. Conduct thorough research and analysis to support trading decisions and strategy development. Collaborate with other trading desks, risk management, and back-office teams to ensure efficient trade execution and settlement. Maintain and build relationships with key market participants, including brokers, clients, and other financial institutions. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and internal policies. Provide mentorship and guidance to junior traders and analysts. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CFA, FRM) preferred. Extensive experience in bond trading, preferably within a proprietary trading environment. In-depth knowledge of the bond market, including pricing, risk management, and regulatory environment. Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with proficiency in trading platforms and financial modeling tools. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders. Ability to work under pressure and make quick, informed decisions in a fast-paced trading environment. Fluency in Mandarin and English is required.

Negotiable

Shanghai

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IRS Trader

Role: Execute and manage IRS trading strategies to maximise profitability and minimise risk. Monitor market trends, economic data, and geopolitical events to identify trading opportunities. Develop and maintain relationships with key market participants, including brokers, clients, and other financial institutions. Conduct thorough analysis of market conditions and provide insights to senior management. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and internal policies. Collaborate with other trading desks, risk management, and back-office teams to ensure smooth trade execution and settlement. Mentor and provide guidance to junior traders and analysts. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CFA, FRM) preferred. Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in IRS trading, preferably within a major financial institution. In-depth knowledge of the IRS market, including pricing, risk management, and regulatory environment. Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with proficiency in trading platforms and financial modeling tools. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders. Ability to work under pressure and make quick, informed decisions in a fast-paced trading environment. Fluency in Mandarin and English is required.

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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FX Trader

Role: Execute FX trades across various currency pairs to achieve profit targets. Manage and optimise the bank's proprietary trading portfolio. Monitor market trends, economic data, and geopolitical events to identify trading opportunities. Develop and implement trading strategies based on quantitative and qualitative analysis. Implement effective risk management practices to minimise potential losses. Monitor and manage exposure to ensure compliance with risk limits. Conduct regular performance reviews and adjust positions as necessary. Work closely with other traders, analysts, and risk management teams. Prepare and present regular reports on trading performance and market outlook. Contribute to the development of the bank's overall trading strategy. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, or a related field. Advanced degrees or professional certifications (e.g., CFA, FRM) are a plus. Solid experience in FX trading, preferably in a proprietary trading environment. Strong understanding of global FX markets, trading platforms, and financial instruments. Proven track record of profitable trading and risk management. Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and make quick, informed decisions.

Negotiable

Shanghai

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Analyst - Bond Trading

Job Title: Analyst/Associate - Bond Trading Location: Hong Kong Job Description: We are looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Analyst/Associate to join our Bond Trading team. This role involves creating and presenting proposals and pitch books to potential corporate clients, developing marketing materials, and preparing detailed information memorandums for counter parties. The successful candidate will also manage the preparation of Private Placement Memorandums for investors and address their inquiries. Key Responsibilities: Gather and analyse market data related to money markets and bond trading (both short-term and long-term). Formulate and share trade ideas, strategies, pricing models, and trading plans. Efficiently source liquidity and manage associated risks. Drive business growth and profitability for the company. Collaborate with various departments within the company and headquarters to ensure smooth front-to-back trade processes. Ensure compliance with all relevant company policies, regulations, and guidelines from the Head Office and regulatory bodies. Prepare and submit regular and ad hoc reports to the Head Office or management team. Undertake additional tasks as assigned. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field. At least 3 years of experience in banking and financial institutions. Strong analytical and quantitative abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge of fixed income products and markets is advantageous. Fluency in Korean is required.

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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Interest Rates Swaps Trader

We have a current opportunity for a Euro Swaps Trader on a permanent basis. The position will be based in Amsterdam. For further information about this position please apply.

Negotiable

Amsterdam

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Facilitation Trader

Job Title: Facilitation Trader Location: Hong Kong Job Type: Full-time, permanent Responsibilities: Portfolio Management: Develop, propose, and manage a portfolio of opportunistic investment strategies in equities to generate returns within general risk guidelines. Trading Infrastructure: Build and optimise necessary trading infrastructure to enhance strategy management and improve operational efficiency. Client Facilitation: Identify and provide strategic facilitation to qualified clients in collaboration with the sales team. Cross-functional Collaboration: Communicate and work closely with Middle Office Support, Technology, Operations, and Risk Management teams to resolve related issues and further develop strategic plans. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field Minimum of 5 years of experience in equity trading or a similar role Strong analytical and quantitative skills Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Proficiency in trading platforms and financial software Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment Preferred Qualifications: Advanced degree (e.g., Master's or PhD) in Finance, Economics, or a related field Professional certifications (e.g., CFA, FRM) Experience with algorithmic trading and quantitative analysis In-depth knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance Proven track record of successful portfolio management Familiarity with risk management practices and tools

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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Quant Developer (m/f)

Qualifications Master's degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or equivalent, with top grades* Proficient in various programming languages - Python & C++ preferred Comfortable with Linux/Unix (command line, SSH) Experience with version control (e.g., Git) Precise coder with strict coding practices Team player with clear communication Proactive, flexible, and stress-resistant *Minimum requirements: Top 200 university Top-tier grades (e.g., CH: >5.5, UK: >70%, NL: >8.0, DE: <1.6, FR: A, IT: 110L or equivalent) Benefits Competitive pay, including discretionary bonus Inspiring work environment Experienced colleagues 25 vacation days Commuting expense allowance Perks: regular dinners, Friday drinks, office trips, weekly massages, gym subscription, and free lunch

Negotiable

Zug

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Associate/ VP/ Director - Strategic Equity Solutions

Introduction: Are you ready to elevate your career within the financial sector? Our esteemed client is actively seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking individual for an exciting role based in the heart of London. As part of their commitment to pioneering strategic equity solutions, they are inviting applications for positions ranging from Associate to Vice President (VP) and Director levels. Key Responsibilities: - Devise innovative strategies tailored towards equity solutions - Engage with stakeholders across various sectors, providing bespoke advisory services - Analyse market trends to develop actionable insights that drive decision-making processes - Foster collaborative relationships both internally and externally, ensuring alignment with business objectives Relevant Skills: **Strategic Thinking**: You must be able to craft long-term plans that anticipate future challenges or opportunities related specifically tо equities. **Analytical Acumen**: A keen eye for detail combined with robust analytical skills will enable you tо dissect complex data sets relevant tο financial markets. **Relationship Management:** Your ability tо build аnd maintain positive working relationships іs critical fог successful engagements аnd solution implementations. Location: The vibrant city оf Lоndon offers not only a premier work destination but also ample cultural experiences enhancing personal growth alongside professional development. Position Type: Permanent employment granting unparalleled opportunity fог stability аnԁ longevity wіthіп thе finance industry's ever-evolving landscape. This represents more than just another job; it's yοuг chance to make significant contributions within one оf thе most challenging yet rewarding domains - Financial Services!

Negotiable

London

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VP/Director - Strategic Equity Solutions

Introduction: Seize the opportunity to lead and innovate within Germany's vibrant financial sector! We are searching for a visionary VP/Director, fluent in German, with expertise in strategic equity solutions. This pivotal role offers a chance at shaping high-level strategies that drive success within an esteemed institution dedicated to excellence in financial services. Key Responsibilities: - Develop comprehensive strategies for equity-based solutions tailored to client needs. - Foster enduring relationships with key stakeholders and clients across diverse sectors. - Lead cross-functional teams towards achieving targeted business outcomes through effective strategy implementation. Skills Required: **Strategic Planning:** Aspirants must possess robust skills in formulating long-term objectives and setting overall direction for the company's strategic equity offerings. **Financial Acumen:** A deep understanding of finance is crucial, including familiarity with market trends affecting equities which will inform solution development. **Leadership Excellence**: Proven experience directing teams while nurturing talent is essential; leadership here means guiding others toward shared goals effectively & efficiently. *German Proficiency:* Candidates should be adept speakers of German as this skill is vital for engaging comprehensively with local markets and clientele. Join us on our journey into new horizons of growth where your influence can have significant impact!

Negotiable

Germany

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Nordic Rates Sales - Solutions and Flow

Introduction: We are seeking a dedicated professional to join our dynamic team as a Nordic Rates Sales expert specializing in both solutions and flow for fixed income products. This permanent position offers you an exceptional opportunity to engage with prestigious Nordic clients, providing tailored investment solutions that cater to their sophisticated needs. Key Responsibilities: - Develop strategic relationships with key institutional clients across the Nordics. - Craft customized rates-based investment strategies aligned with client objectives. - Execute trades smoothly while managing risk effectively through innovative flow processes. Required Skills & Expertise: * Sales Acumen: Your natural knack for negotiation will be pivotal in fostering long-term partnerships. * Fixed Income Knowledge: A solid understanding of fixed-income securities is essential for crafting high-quality rate solution packages * Client-Centric Approach: Ability at building rapport helps deliver personalized service meeting each institution's unique portfolio requirements * Market Expertise: Keeping abreast on interest rate trends allows you to advise your clientele wisely about opportunities or risks ahead.

Negotiable

Paris

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Deal Contingent FX Structurer

Deal Contingent FX Structuring Role in London Are you ready to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of Foreign Exchange (FX) and Risk Management solutions? We have a thrilling opportunity for an experienced individual seeking to advance their career within one of the most in demand financial sectors. This Deal Contingent FX Structuring position is based in the heart of London. In this role, your responsibilities will include: - Crafting bespoke risk management strategies tailored to client-specific events. - Engaging with event-driven transactions that require nimble yet robust analyses. - Developing specialized coverage plans for our diverse portfolio of financial sponsors. - Executing complex trades involving both FX vanilla and exotic options as well as Interest Rate Swaps (IR Swaps). To excel at these tasks, we're looking for candidates who possess: Risk Management: Ability to analyze market trends and craft strategic responses under uncertain conditions inherent in deal-contingent engagements. Event Driven Transactions Proficiency: Skilled at navigating markets during volatile periods triggered by specific corporate or economic events. Financial Sponsor Coverage Expertise: Experienced with structuring products suitable for private equity firms or other investment groups managing large pools of capital. Deep Knowledge about FX Options & IR Swaps: Familiarity with various foreign exchange instruments including but not limited to vanilla/exotic options; expertise on interest rate swaps is critical.

Negotiable

City of London

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Head of Securities Finance and Collateral Management Trading

Our client, a leading challenger bank headquartered in Zurich, is looking for someone to head up their Securities Finance & Collateral Management Trading desk. Taking over a team of 5, this role will have an element of market making, in addition to infrastructure optimization and liquidity & inventory management. The right candidate will have: -At least 10 years of experience, including Securities Finance / Collateral Management / SBL / Equity Repo / Equity Finance experience. -Fluent English, other languages are a plus. -Experience with Structured Products (or an understanding of what they are) is a plus. Please apply today to learn more about this great opportunity!

bonus, benefits

Zurich

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Sales and Trading News & Insights

sales-and-trading

The Best Cities for Commodities Jobs

Commodity traders, brokers, and investors buy and sell raw products, such as gas, metal, and agricultural products, based on the predicted or actual value of tangible goods. By conducting research, calculating risk, and analyzing financial markets, commodity traders can make a favorable decision on whether to buy or sell commodities based on current market needs.Like shares, commodities are bought and sold on exchanges. Brokers work across a variety of firms, including investment banks, hedge funds, and asset management. Commodity investor and trader positions are available in every city, but not every opportunity is equal. Wages, benefits, working hours, and job openings are likely to be different in every city for commodity traders. To help you decide on the best place to live and work as a commodity investor we have identified which cities have the most amount of job vacancies.Offering insights to commodity traders, investors, and brokers considering relocation opportunities, and hiring managers looking to attract top industry talent, here are some of the best cities to work as a commodity trader.Cities with the Most Amount of Vacancies Whether you are looking for career opportunities or you are a business in need of top talent, it’s beneficial to know the cities with prominent national commodity markets and investment in banking infrastructure. The following cities have the greatest number of vacancies and opportunities for commodity brokers. New YorkFollowing the COVID-19 pandemic, New York overtook London as the city with the most amount of vacancies. New York is the financial hub of the world, as a key player in global financial markets due to two of the largest stock exchanges in the world: the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq.It is considered to be one of the best cities for a career in finance and the trading of commoditiesWith the highest 10% of commodity traders earning an average annual salary of $193,000, the outlook for commodities in New York suggests strong market growth likely to attract new entrants. DubaiHome to the largest and most diversified exchange in the Middle East, Dubai is an established commodity trading hub and a magnet for international commodity trader talent. Equipped with forward-thinking strategies and advanced infrastructure, Dubai is quickly growing in significance in futures trading. In 2023, Dubai’s economy recorded 3.3% growth in the first nine months, showcasing the city’s drive, resilience, and innovation. With an economic plan to boost trade and investments in 2024, Dubai boasts a favorable business climate attractive to traders worldwide. Hong KongThe commodities market in Hong Kong plays to the investors' advantage as demand for commodity risk management increases to protect against hedge price swings from China. Agriculture, mining, oil, gas, and chemical supply chains are evolving, presenting an excellent opportunity for candidates with commodities trading experience.With developing international trade and changing market demands, experienced commodity traders looking to relocate to Hong Kong have the potential to earn an average annual salary of HK$360,000 and benefit from thriving business environments. HoustonHouston presents a variety of commodities job opportunities for commodity traders due to an amplified energy transition and an enhanced focus on renewable energy sources. Talent with experience in renewable power and environmental commodity transactions in Houston are sure to benefit from the industry's exponential growth. Independent commodities trading houses as well as big commodity trading firms maintain a significant presence in this city and present many future trading jobs for candidates. BostonAn attractive city for those who are seeking commodities jobs, Boston is a leading location with financial and commodities job availability. With trading firms dominating the financial landscape, this city is sure to catch the eye of traders, investors, and brokers. Domeyard LP, Akuna Capital, and Piper Jaffray are among the assortment of firms thatfavor business in this financial services hub, presenting ample commodity trading opportunities to the local area.Why Choose Us?At Selby Jennings, we provide organizations with access to industry-leading talent and are experts in identifying the right candidates for niche positions. We are a lead specialist talent acquisition partner with the latest recruitment news, trends, and knowledge to elevate your hiring process or job search. Advertise your banking and financial services open job vacancies via our website to access innovative talent and connect with exciting traders and investment professionals. Get in Touch NowFor more information about how we can help you secure top commodity traders, get in touch today. For more information or to find your next commodities job position, take a look at our current roles. Alternatively, you can upload your resume. Once received, one of our consultants will be in touch as soon as a role that matches your skill set becomes available.

sales-and-trading

The Future of FX Trading Jobs: Changes, Benefits, and Opportunities

Foreign exchange (FX) trading has always been a critical component of the global financial market, with currencies being exchanged daily for various purposes such as international trade, investments, and travel. As the global economy evolves, so does the landscape of FX trading jobs. In this blog, we will explore the future of FX trading jobs, how they are changing, and the benefits of these changes. 1. The Rise of Technology and AutomationThe future of FX jobs will be significantly influenced by the rise of technology and automation, leading to a transformation in the skills required and the nature of the roles within the industry. As algorithmic trading and artificial intelligence (AI) become more prevalent, traditional tasks performed by human traders may be automated, resulting in a decrease in demand for some conventional FX roles. However, this shift will also give rise to new opportunities in areas such as data analytics, AI development, and machine learning, where professionals can focus on creating, implementing, and maintaining these advanced technologies.In response to these changes, FX professionals will need to evolve their skill sets to stay relevant in the job market. This includes acquiring a strong understanding of technology, data analysis, and programming languages, as well as staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends and innovations. As a result, the future of FX jobs will place a greater emphasis on adaptability, continuous learning, and the ability to work alongside automated systems.2. Global Market DynamicsThe future of FX jobs will be greatly impacted by global market dynamics, as international economic events and trends have a direct influence on the foreign exchange market. The ongoing developments in the global economy will require FX professionals to possess specialized knowledge and expertise in specific regions and currencies, creating opportunities for those with a deep understanding of global market forces.For example, the ongoing US-China trade tensions and the resulting fluctuations in currency values have increased the need for FX professionals who can navigate these complex situations and develop effective trading strategies. Similarly, the global shift towards adopting digital currencies, such as cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), opens up new avenues for FX professionals who can understand and capitalize on these innovative financial instruments.Additionally, FX professionals will need to stay informed about geopolitical events, such as Brexit, which have far-reaching implications on currency markets.3. Regulatory EnvironmentThe regulatory environments governing the FX industry play a crucial role in shaping the future of FX jobs. As regulatory requirements evolve to address market abuses, mitigate risks, and enhance transparency, the FX trading landscape undergoes continuous change.For example, the introduction of the MiFID II (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II) regulations in the European Union significantly impacted the FX market. These regulations aimed to improve transparency and investor protection, leading to increased demand for compliance professionals and risk management specialists within the FX trading space. FX firms now need to ensure they adhere to these new requirements, such as trade reporting, best execution, and data management.As regulatory environments continue to evolve, FX professionals must stay informed about the latest developments and adapt accordingly. This includes acquiring knowledge of regulatory frameworks, understanding the impact of these regulations on their roles, and ensuring compliance with the best practices in the industry. By being proactive and adaptive, FX professionals can maintain their relevance in the job market and contribute to a more transparent and resilient FX market.Benefits of Changes in the FX Trading Job LandscapeAdaptability: The evolving landscape encourages professionals to be adaptable and agile, fostering continuous learning and career growth.Broader skill set: The need for diverse skills, such as technology and data analysis, allows FX professionals to expand their expertise and become more versatile in their careers.Competitive advantage: Professionals who embrace these changes gain a competitive edge in the job market, opening doors to new opportunities.Industry innovation: Technological advancements and new market insights contribute to the overall growth and efficiency of the FX trading industry.To also check out our discipline page, view here.The future of FX trading jobs will be shaped by factors such as technology, global market dynamics, and regulations. To stay ahead in this evolving landscape, professionals must adapt to these changes, develop new skills, and remain informed about industry developments. At Selby Jennings, we are committed to helping both clients and candidates navigate these changes and seize opportunities in the FX trading job market.If you are an employer looking to hire top talent in the FX trading space, our team of experienced consultants can provide tailored solutions and support to ensure that you find the right candidates for your organization. Don't hesitate to request a callback to discuss your specific needs and learn how we can help you stay ahead in the dynamic FX trading landscape.For professionals seeking new opportunities in FX trading, we encourage you to browse our available jobs and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and opportunities in the market. Our expert consultants are committed to helping you find the perfect role that aligns with your skills and career goals in this ever-changing environment.

commodities

Adapting Hiring Strategies to the Changing Commodities Landscape

Global net-zero targets have altered the commodities landscape, which now sees the industry playing a defining role in supplying essential materials, from copper to rare earth, that work towards a carbon neutral future. What’s more, commodities remain the best-performing asset class of 2022 and enjoyed healthy activity in Q1, rising to nearly 30% as calculated by the S&P GSCI Index.The outlook ahead for commodities suggests strong growth, but to be able to capitalize on opportunities, commodities firms need the right people in place. Here we take an introspective look at the latest talent trends that you should be aware of to get ahead in this fast-moving industry. Counter offers in commoditiesIn today’s competitive landscape, with the brightest minds in commodities in ever-increasing demand, firms are opening their wallets to not only secure professionals but also as a retention tool. Since the beginning of this year, organizations have found themselves in a candidate-driven market, which has simultaneously resulted in compensation swelling to facilitate this demand. While it’s not all about capital, it’s important to note that professionals are bargaining hard for the top offer. We’ve observed many professionals increase their salaries by seeking greener pastures, and even passive talent are making moves to follow the money. Commodities firms are rapidly trying to fill seats post-pandemic and are therefore heavily compensating mission-critical professionals to facilitate their expanding growth plans. Counter offers also pose a threat to any firm looking to develop a dynamic pipeline of talent. Selby Jennings has seen business leaders offer top-tier employees large salaries to alleviate the chance of them receiving a counter offer, or any retention issues in the future. According to the latest research, most professionals leave their current employer within 12 months of accepting a counter offer, meaning it is important for firms to retain their staff before it gets to the point of needing one, and for professionals to realize what the cost of accepting one really is on their career. Flexible working modelsHowever, while lucrative compensation packages are a big attraction, they are not all encompassing. Heavily driving career decisions is flexible, hybrid, and remote working, with many commodities specialists actively looking for prospective roles that offer fully remote capabilities. The ability to tap into a wider and higher-paying job market that isn’t constrained to one particular location is a compelling factor right now, and even if a role is commutable, professionals are still interested in some degree of flexibility that the hybrid model affords. It’s clear that the flexible working paradigm is of critical importance to today’s workforce, yet some individuals are opting for the office to enrich collaboration and communication, and some feel an office environment services them better in building their personal profile. Commodities hotspots Although rising inflationary pressures and supply chain challenges have impacted commodities verticals, the landscape is buoyant. Since the 1990s, Houston has established itself as the major energy trading arm in the USA. New York closely follows behind as the second energy trading hub, with energy asset operators evolving in the area and enlarging their portfolios. The renewable energy space has surged in importance, with California dubbed to be the key district that is garnering attention from investors and highly skilled talent alike. Houston and New York have also amplified their renewable energy presence, with a large commercial building in Manhattan – One Manhattan West – transitioning to 100% renewable fuels. Despite the scarcity of talent in renewable energy, the year ahead for this industry promises exponential growth and acceleration, and the specialist team at Selby Jennings are excited to see the future developments in this space. Interested in learning more about current trends in commodities? Whether you’re a professional seeking opportunities or a business in need of the right talent, have a confidential discussion with our commodities talent experts today: request a call back or submit a vacancy and one of our team will be in touch, or browse our latest commodities vacancies here.

sales-and-trading

Selby Jennings Partners with The Trading Show Chicago

Selby Jennings is partnering with The Trading Show Chicago for its 2021 exhibition. Held annually in Chicago, IL, this event brings together leaders from areas spanning across trading firms, algo trading, HPC, data, AI, and digital assets, where the industry’s leading firms showcase innovation and conduct business with premier institutional trading firms.The event, taking place October 5th-6th, marks the first in-person gathering for the organization since the beginning of the pandemic. Ben Hodzic, Selby Jennings Executive Director, believes that this presents a unique opportunity to attendees. "This year has brought challenges to recruiting that many of our clients have never experienced before. Our birds-eye view of the hiring landscape and need for exceptional talent has been an incredible resource to our clients as they navigate hiring in a candidate-driven market," said Hodzic. " We are very excited to take part in the Trading Show Chicago and meet with some of the industry's brightest minds to discuss unique approaches to recruiting that are required in a market like the one we are in today if you are going to secure the best and brightest talent out there."Jeff Koehler, Selby Jennings Director, will be leading a round table discussion at the event. Titled "Recruiting Strategies – How to Secure the Best Talent in a Competitive Market," the round table will be held on October 6th at 2:00 pm. Find the full agenda here.Want to book time with our team at the conference? Let us know your availability by filling out the form below.

sales-and-trading

Selby Jennings Partnership with The Trading Show Americas 2020

Selby Jennings has partnered with The Trading Show Americas 2020, which took place virtually, September 15th – 17th. This virtual conference brought together senior-level quants, traders and technologists to discuss and address the most critical developments impacting quant desks, crypto funds, and high-performance trading operations in 2020 and beyond.The virtual format of this year’s event, combining The Trading Show Chicago and The Trading Show New York, was a unique and exciting opportunity to bring together industry-leading professionals and an expansive group of attendees from across North America.Highlighting the value we brought to the virtual event, Selby Jennings Executive Director, Ben Hodzic, commented, “Our bird’s-eye view of the recruiting landscape brought a unique look in to the challenges and success stories of recruiting through a pandemic. The need for talented Traders, Quants, Technologists, and Risk Managers, who are equally as productive from home as they are in the office, is apparent now more than ever and we’re excited to bring this perspective to the conference this year.”During the conference, Selby Jennings Director, Jeff Koehler, joined an esteemed panel of specialists to discuss “HR Solutions – Competing with Big Tech for Quality Talent”. Jeff joined Hannah Van Campen, Manager of HR And Culture at Tower Research Capital, and Caroline Randazzo, Director of Recruitment & HR at 3Red Partners to discuss strategies for retention planning, modernization, and employee engagement. "Whether at the entry or experienced-level, big tech has been a major competitor for talent to the trading industry in recent years," shared Jeff Koehler. "It creates a challenge for both internal and agency recruiters, so I am keen to share our experience when it comes to attracting talent, managing expectations, and locking down offers when a job seeker is balancing both options. The trading industry can have an edge in many of these instances, and it all boils down to finding the angle as it applies to one’s motivations and career goals."To check out what types of Quantitative Research & Trading vacancies we have available here at Selby Jennings, click here.For more information on the conference, or how Selby Jennings can help with your recruitment needs, contact us today.

sales-and-trading

Hardware Acceleration in Trading: Introduction and Hiring Outlook

Hardware acceleration in tradingFor some years, high-frequency trading (HFT) firms have invested in faster software and lower latency networks, but more recently their focus has turned to increasing network bandwidth and hardware processing speeds. Looking to increase revenue, traditional software is being replaced by hardware implementations of financial algorithms, bringing the algorithms much closer to the source of the exchange data. As a result, financial markets are becoming increasingly competitive and latency-sensitive.Hardware acceleration explainedHFT has transformed the stock market, and currently equates to around 50% of stock trading volume in the USA. However, it has been extremely controversial in the process. Using complex algorithms, this system of trading scans multiple markets for the smallest of opportunities and executes millions of orders at lightning speed. Traders might only make a small profit on each transaction, but by working fast and at high volume the returns can be considerable. Speed is of the essence for HFT firms: the options market trades around 40 million contracts every day. This is why Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology – a reprogrammable device that allows algorithms to be compiled into hardware running at near processor speeds – has piqued the interest of the trading markets. These silicon chips combine the best parts of custom designed ASICs and processor-based systems and accelerate functions otherwise performed by software.FPGA: impact on the industry As financial markets are pushed towards hyper-liquidity, trading strategies are being forced to evolve. Decision-making relies less on human intervention and more on algorithms fed by high-speed, automated digital data feeds. Using FPGA-based systems, trading firms are able to select the data they want to watch. These systems also help ensure trading strategies achieve the right balance of speed, low latency, precision execution, and cross-asset trading.Benefits of FPGAsFPGAs bring with them a number of benefits: They accelerate some processes by an order of a magnitude (or more)The latency of this hardware means an end to the ‘jitter’ experienced with software and brings an edge to companies that utilize the technologyThey can be reprogrammed spontaneously (either completely or partly), avoiding the need to bring down an entire system simply to change a programFPGA processing is more deterministic, thus reducing functional risk and simplifying testing Risks to the industryEven though the benefits of FPGAs to traders are clear, uptake has been relatively slow. Firms looking to invest need to consider key factors, from regulatory changes to the rising costs of these solutions. Usage is often limited to recognized network applications, pack inspection, and digital feed handling. Once HFT firms have invested in a FPGA-based solution, the race is on to develop smarter, more efficient, and more profitable algorithms. But FPGA development is much more difficult than software, and lead times to deployment can be lengthy. With ongoing support in short supply, firms risk losing that competitive edge. Programmable hardware requires a totally new approach and much more planning than software. CPU-familiar software engineers lack the required skills, so the recruitment challenge is finding individuals with the right combination of financial and engineering skills. Because such talent is in short supply, candidates with the right skills can command high salaries and may not want to stick around once a project has gone live.The business perspective - the hiring pictureOver recent years, hiring for hardware talent within the trading industry has been high in Chicago in particular. A couple of firms have been very aggressive with hiring and scaling (with teams of over 10+ engineers) whilst others have focused on building small, dedicated teams. Whilst a handful of firms are very much on the right track and led by engineers who truly understand the industry, there are still trading firms who are heading down the hardware route with little strategy behind it.Without a doubt, it is a candidate driven market and there are challenges faced by many firms in a bid to source and attract talent:Lack of industry knowledge. The majority of hardware engineers in the industry are on their first or second role within a trading firm. It can be difficult to tear them away – they are compensated very well, their work is still greenfield and exciting, plus they typically have hefty non-competes (unless they are in California, of course).This means that firms often look for candidates outside the industry. This has its own challenges. The majority of this candidate pool is based in Silicon Valley, where their skills can be applicable to multiple different industries in the start up world. For many of these candidates, relocating to Chicago to work in a trading firm is simply not on their radar or something that they are interested in. Narrow Focus. Many hardware engineers in technology companies – and especially those employed by larger companies – have responsibilities narrowly focusing on hardware development where knowledge in one or more additional fields including software engineering, algorithms, network engineering, or finance is desirable for careers in trading.The interview process. Many trading firms are still refining their interview process for hardware engineers. We have seen some cases of over 100 candidates being interviewed for one hire. Recommendations to source talentTap into candidate pools in locations such as Seattle, Idaho, Toronto, Phoenix.Take time to ‘sell’ and explain the firm/industry early on in the interview process. Some candidates have little knowledge or awareness of what a trading firm does and need to be educated on all the benefits early on.Be flexible and understand that many professionals will come from consulting or contract backgrounds – something that is typically frowned upon by trading firms.Recognize that you need to be flexible and competitive when it comes to compensation. The professional's perspective – the future is brightAlthough the above paints a somewhat difficult picture from a business perspective, in fact, the outlook is bright for professionals and it is a great time to be a hardware engineer. Whilst 10 years ago, traders were seen as the key to success within an HFT firm, hardware engineers are now an essential. Compensation packages can be upwards of $500,000 total compensation for a seasoned hardware engineer within the trading industry, there are many projects are still in early stages, and professionals are highly sought after by organizations.Contact Selby Jennings today to learn more about attracting and retaining hardware engineering talent, or explore open sales and trading roles.

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Selby Jennings: A Specialist Talent Partner in Sales & Trading Recruitment