Sales and Trading Recruitment | Careers

Selby Jennings: A Specialist Sales and Trading Recruitment Talent Partner

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.

Estate Planning Consultant - AVP

Job Responsibilities: Cultivate relationships with referral sources within designated territories of EPCs (Estate Planning Counselors). Collaborate with referral sources to identify and assess potential prospects for the Company's planning and life insurance products. Arrange client meetings in accordance with solicitation guidelines and client availability. Deliver presentations on the Company's planning concepts and life insurance products to prospects. Track, oversee, and follow up on prospective client engagements, including planning, meetings, and correspondence, ensuring accurate documentation in the system. Engage in relevant marketing activities as required. Utilize the Company's sales management systems and adhere to all solicitation and compliance standards.

Negotiable

Malaysia

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Partnerships Sales Development Manager

Job Responsibilities: Identify and engage potential partners across clubs, associations, communities, and corporate sectors in Singapore. Formulate and implement a comprehensive partnership strategy to expand sales channels effectively. Cultivate and manage strong relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers in targeted organizations. Collaborate cross-functionally with teams in marketing, product development, and sales to craft compelling partnership proposals and presentations. Negotiate and formalize partnership agreements, ensuring terms are mutually advantageous. Monitor and assess partnership performance, delivering regular reports and insights to senior management. Keep abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and market opportunities to optimize partnership strategies continuously. Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and meetings to enhance brand visibility and foster relationships with potential partners.

Negotiable

Singapore

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Senior/Junior Machine Learning Quant Researcher

Company Overview: A leading hedge fund based in New York City, specializing in quantitative investment strategies that combines rigorous quantitative research with advanced technology to capitalize on market opportunities across global financial markets. Job Description: They are seeking both Senior and Junior Machine Learning Quantitative Researchers to join their dynamic team. As a member of their research group, you will collaborate closely with portfolio managers, data scientists, and technologists to develop and implement cutting-edge machine learning models and quantitative trading strategies. Responsibilities: Research and Development: Conduct research to develop, refine, and implement machine learning models for alpha generation and risk management. Data Analysis: Analyze large datasets to identify patterns, correlations, and predictive signals relevant to financial markets. Model Implementation: Translate research prototypes into production-grade code that can be deployed in live trading environments. Collaboration: Work closely with portfolio managers to integrate quantitative research insights into investment strategies. Optimization: Continuously optimize and enhance existing models to improve performance and efficiency. Qualifications: For Senior Researchers: Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field. Proven track record of developing and deploying machine learning models in a financial or trading environment. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, R, or C++. Deep understanding of financial markets and quantitative trading strategies. Leadership and mentorship experience is a plus. For Junior Researchers: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field. Some experience or coursework in machine learning and data analysis. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB. Interest in financial markets and quantitative finance. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Additional Skills: Experience with libraries and frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn. Familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark) is a plus. Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment. Benefits: Competitive compensation package including base salary and performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive benefits package (healthcare, dental, vision, retirement). Opportunity for professional growth and career advancement in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.

US$200000 - US$450000 per year + Performance Based Bonus

New York

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Head of Font Office Support

Role: Oversee the Front Office Support function in Hong Kong and China, leading a team across both geographies. Support the markets business in the Hong Kong and China region, and provide additional support to the global team and key stakeholders. Review existing local and global markets processes, propose enhancements, and ensure alignment with regulatory changes. Adhere to controls and procedures and stay informed about regulatory updates and operational risks. Take ownership of issues and proactively identify solutions. Ensure that all services delivered comply with governance requirements, policies, processes, and legal/regulatory standards. Requirements: Extensive experience and knowledge of Financial Markets, a deep understanding of cross products, sales, and trading within FICC. Proficient in front-to-back processes, governance, compliance, and regulatory operationalization for a robust control environment. Demonstrated ability to exercise risk-focused, commercially astute and analytically sound judgement, even in ambiguous situations. Proven track record of setting and achieving goals, leading self and others through large-scale changes, and adeptly negotiating with stakeholders at all levels. Leadership style reflects maturity, resilience, and the ability to navigate ambiguity. Effective communication of a clear and compelling vision, coupled with leadership competencies, will empower you to manage change, exercise sound judgement, foster relationships (both internal and external), and develop others.

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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Institutional Equity Sales

Experience: 2 - 7 years' previous full-time working experience Start Date: ASAP Location: Paris, France Language requirements: Fluent French & English Our client is a leading independent, full-service growth investment bank for the European healthcare, technology, energy-transition, and consumer sectors. Clients benefit from our relentless commitment to their long-term success, unparalleled insights into these strategically important sectors and strong relationships with investors - from private equity and venture capital to institutional investors across the US, Europe, and Asia. With a team of more than 20 experts providing thought-leading research on more than 200 listed companies. BG IRIS works closely with the sales and trading team who are in charge of selling IRIS' research and executing investors' orders. Our clients sales professionals are based in Paris, London, and New York and the team service institutional clients across Europe, with an emphasis on France, UK, Benelux, Switzerland, and the US. They provide coverage to worldwide institutions from pension, mutual, hedge and private equity funds. Working closely with the IRIS analysts, they are able to bring insight, actionable ideas, and relevant market opportunities to clients. Our client is seeking a dynamic Sales professional who works well within a team, is entrepreneurial, and successful in maintaining - as well as building new - client relationships. Industries of focus in this role will be our key growth sectors; Technology (including Energy Transition & Cleantech), Healthcare (Biotech & Medtech) and Circular Economy. This role will involve the distribution of a broad range of products in both the private and public space i.e. ECM transactions (IPOs, Capital Raisings), Private Placements (Primary & Secondary), Private Debt & Hybrids (Convertibles), etc. The ideal candidate will have: Between 2 - 7 years' experience in sales / distribution role Demonstrated track record Existing network/client base of non-conventional investors i.e. single and multi-family offices, particularly in Continental Europe. Multi-strategy hedge funds would be a plus Willingness to work in an entrepreneurial environment with a proactive approach to opening client relationships Fluent French and English speaker.

Negotiable

Paris

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French Equity Derivative Institutional Sales

**French Equity Derivative Institutional Sales - Paris, France** Are you a seasoned professional in the realm of equity derivatives? Do your talents lie within institutional sales and crafting quantitative investment strategies that drive success? If so, we have an opportunity that may be just right for you. We are seeking a dedicated individual with expertise in French Equity Derivative Institutional Sales to join our team on a permanent basis located in the beautiful city of Paris. This role will challenge and reward you as it involves: - Developing robust relationships with institutional clients - Utilizing extensive knowledge about structured products to propose tailored solutions - Applying comprehensive understanding of Quantitative Investment Strategies (QIS) Ideal candidates should possess: *Skills & Experience:* - Proven experience ranging from 5 - 10 years within sales or related positions focusing on equity derivatives. *Selling Solutions:* The ability to understand client needs deeply enough to develop custom solutions around structured products which cater specifically towards their unique challenges. *Equity Derivatives Knowledge:* A strong grasp over various derivative instruments is crucial because they form the core product offering involved in this role. *Institutional Client Management:* Prior interaction with large-scale institutions would serve well since these entities make up significant part of clientele one must manage effectively here. Experience championing QIS offers considerable advantage due its relevance when proposing innovative financial strategies aimed at delivering competitive edge across markets today's dynamic market environment requires familiarity such forefront methodologies remain ahead curve continually evolving landscape industry faces each day passes by.. We invite those who meet above criteria passionate joining vibrant community professionals committed excellence growth both personal professional levels consider applying now embark upon new journey full possibilities await!

Negotiable

Paris

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Equity Derivative Sales - Director - Distribution Cverage

**Director of Equity Derivative Sales - German Distribution** Are you ready to take your expertise in equity derivatives sales to new heights within a dynamic and ever-evolving financial sector? We are seeking an accomplished professional for the role of Director, specializing in Equity Derivative Sales with a focus on the German market. This permanent position located at our prestigious Frankfurt office offers an unparalleled opportunity for career growth and personal development. In this high-caliber role, you will be entrusted with: - Spearheading distribution coverage tailored specifically towards Germany / Austrian market landscape. - Pioneering innovative solutions that resonate well within the realm of equity derivatives while meeting clients' complex needs. - Navigating through intricate product offerings as part of providing top-tier service excellence. We value candidates who possess: Sales Acumen: A proven track record in forging strong relationships and closing deals effectively. You'll need finesse when handling various stages from initial contact right up until deal closure - all while ensuring client satisfaction remains paramount throughout each transaction process undertaken by yourself or team members under your leadership guidance Equity Derivatives Knowledge: An extensive understanding about how these instruments work is essential; it's what sets apart those best suited toward excelling here! Solution-Oriented Approach: The ability doesn't just identify problems but also devise practical resolutions quickly so transactions can progress smoothly without undue delay due diligence periods etc If building influential networks among key industry players sounds like something which aligns perfectly alongside both skillset & ambitions then look no further than applying today! Join us embark upon fulfilling journey where every day brings exciting challenges coupled opportunities grow professionally beyond imaginations' wildest expectations!

Negotiable

Frankfurt am Main

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High YIeld Credit Trader - VP/Director

We are seeking a seasoned High Yield Credit Trader to join a leading European Bank in their London team. A high-performing team, they are looking for someone who can bring an excellent work ethic & high yield expertise to the desk. Candidates must bring at least 5 years of experience trading Euro High Yield. Key Responsibilities: Analyse credit risk and market trends to make informed trading decisions. Trade high yield debt instruments effectively within established guidelines. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including analysts and other traders, to optimise strategies. Please apply now to learn more about this unique opportunity.

bonus, benefits

London

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Quantitative Research (Global Equities)

We are working with a hedge fund in New York assisting with the build-out of a Mid-Frequency (intraday to weekly) global equities desk with a strong focus on statistical arbitrage. The firm is looking for highly motivated individuals that have hands-on global equity alpha research experience. Responsibilities: Alpha generation for Global Equities and Stat-Arb based signals Researching, developing, and participating in full life cycle trading process including alpha modeling Research, Back-test, and implement trading models / signals Hands on with Python or similar for Modeling Requirements 3-5 years experience on a mid-frequency systematic or quantitative trading desk 3-5 years conducting alpha research for global equities or stat-arb based strategies Masters or PhD in a quantitative field such as Physics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics or Computer Science (PhD preferred but not required) Technical experience with Python for ML, Deep Learning, modeling, or similar

US$175000 - US$300000 per year + + Bonus and Benefits

New York

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Head of Quantitative Research

A Crypto Asset Manager is looking to onboard an experienced Head of Quantitative Research to oversee their alpha generation efforts across Crypto trading. Trading time horizons vary across their trading teams. Responsibilities: Oversight and management of quantitative crypto strategy research Assist in use of proper data pipeline to incorporate into research systems Alpha generation Oversee the Quantitative Research Team Requirements: 10+ years of experience developing alpha and researching quant trading strategies Prior Quantitative Trading experience working on Alpha Generation for intraday strategies Familiarity with Cryptocurrency Hands on programming experience with Python, C++ or similar language Perks: A collaborative yet entrepreneurial environment that encourages constant innovation and growth through the development of elite trading technologies PnL split (%) or bonus based on strategy performance (Target $800,000 to $1,500,000+ TC per year) Fully remote work option available Diversity & Inclusion: A company commitment to equal opportunity. We do not condone discrimination on the premise of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or expression.

US$200000 - US$500000 per year + on target 800k+

New York

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Equity Solutions Sales Trader

Responsible for executing cash equity trades in the HK/CHN and regional markets, as well as handling ETF PD execution and client management (working with ETF issuers and market makers). Solid experience in sales trading, ETF trading or sales, and institutional sales for market makers. Strong background in client relationship management, excellent interpersonal skills, and a sociable personality for effective client communication. Experience in ETF business and securities borrowing/lending (SBL) or swap business is also beneficial. Familiarity with Order Management System (OMS) platforms (e.g., Fidessa) is desirable. Holds SFC RA1 (Dealing in Securities) or RA2 (Dealing in Futures contracts) qualifications.

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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Quantitative Researcher

I am working with a tier 1 hedge fund in New York City assisting with the build-out of a systematic global macro desk. The main emphasis on the desk is mid frequency trading across futures and FX. Responsibilities: Working on ongoing alpha research projects in the futures and FX space Researching, developing, and participating in the full process of alpha modeling Be involved in data scouting, hypothesis generation, back-testing, and production modeling Will sit in the NYC office alongside 2-3 other researchers (Hybrid flexibility available) Requirements 3-5 years experience in the systematic trading space with a focus on mid frequency or intraday strategies Experience working with Bonds, FX, and Equity indexes (Spot/Futures) Masters or PhD in a quantitative field such as Physics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics or Computer Science Strong development experience in Python Highly motivated with experience in modeling large amounts of data

US$150000 - US$250000 per year + + Bonus and Benefits

New York

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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

A new dawn for commodity trading and talent?

Global net-zero targets have altered the commodities landscape, which now sees the industry playing a defining role to supply 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. The year of counter offers In 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 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 leader offer top-tier employees large salaries to alleviate the chance of 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 the industry to retain staff before it comes to a counter offer, and for professionals to realise what the cost of accepting a counter really is on their career. Flexibility for the futureHowever, 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, communication, and some feel an office environment services them better in building their personal profile. Places of note 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 US. 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 the 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 team today.

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, HFT (high-frequency trading) 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 equated to around 60% of equity trading volume in the US and UK markets, over the last five years.1 HFT trading has transformed the stock markets – and 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: customers want trades executed in less than 100 nanoseconds and the US equity options market sees 25 million quotes and trades occur every second.2 This is why FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Array) 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 an 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 challenge for recruiters is to find 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 Client Perspective - The Hiring PictureOver recent years, not surprisingly the bulk of the hiring for hardware talent within the trading industry has been in Chicago. 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 is 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 – flying cars, autonomous driving etc. 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 1 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. Many 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 of the candidates will come from consulting/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 Candidate Perspective – The Future is Bright!Whilst the above paints a somewhat difficult picture from the client perspective, in fact, the outlook is bright 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 demanding all the kudos. Compensation packages are great (upwards of $500,000 total compensation for a seasoned hardware engineer within the trading industry), projects are still in early stages and you are highly sought after by your competitors!------------About UsSelby Jennings is a leading specialist recruitment agency for banking and financial services. For more than 15 years, we have given clients and candidates peace of mind that the recruitment process is in expert hands. Our continual investment in best-in-class technologies and consultant training enables us to recruit with speed, precision and accuracy. Today, Selby Jennings provides contingency and retained search recruitment across 11 offices in 6 countries. Contact us to find out how Selby Jennings can help you.

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