Quantitative Research & Trading

Quantitative Research & Trading

Selby Jennings: A leading specialist talent partner for Quantitative Research & Trading

Selby Jennings is a leading specialist talent partner for Financial Sciences & Services. Our global Quantsteam provides top-tier talent solutions for quant analysts, offering permanent, contract, and multi-hire options across three continents. With nearly two decades of experience and an unrivaled network, we excel in securing the brightest minds, from systematic traders and modelers to portfolio managers and risk analysts.

Our expertise goes beyond talent acquisition. We advise enterprises on streamlining processes, upskilling workforces, and staying cutting-edge with flexible working models. For quant professionals, we provide expert insight on benchmarking benefits packages, salaries, and guide them through career moves.

With accolades like winning 'Best Executive Search - Quant' in the European Quant Services Award 2021, we are committed to helping clients secure top quant talent. Whether you seek exceptional quantitative talent or are a quant professional on the lookout for new opportunities, Selby Jennings is here to connect you with industry-leading firms worldwide.

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Benefits of working with Selby Jenningsโ€™ global Quants team

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We are a specialist talent partner. Among the many benefits of working with Selby Jenningsโ€™ global Quants team are:

20 years of experience

Extensive knowledge: Our global Quants team has nearly 20 years of experience in this niche sector

award-winning recruitment experts

Our award-winning talent experts offer guidance in the Quants space across three continent

Global recruitment team

Our Quants team places, on average, over 300 professionals globally each year

Recruiting for a portfolio of clients globally

An unrivaled growing portfolio of global clients, both big and small

Do not miss out on securing your desired Quants professionals or securing your next Quants professional role in a Quant's workforce.

Quantitative Research & Trading Jobs

Quantitative Developer

Our client is a leading hedge fund is looking for a skilled Quantitative Developer to join their Fixed Income Rapid Application Development (RAD) team. This team delivers high-impact solutions to portfolio and risk managers, collaborating with quantitative developers, engineers, and data scientists. The position involves crafting solutions using Python/Java/C++ and working across various Portfolio Management teams, utilising a wide range of technologies. Key Responsibilities: Work closely with portfolio management and risk teams to develop practical, rapid solutions, moving from prototype to production. Automate the retrieval and analysis of data, integrating both internal and external market sources into diverse formats. Design and implement data visualisations and interfaces to present data trends and optimise work flows. Work closely with different teams to understand requirements, monitor delivery progress, and manage stakeholder expectations. Essential Qualifications: Advanced degree in Computer Science, Quantitative Finance, or a closely related technical field. Familiarity with financial markets (rates, FX, credit). Strong foundation in financial mathematics, modelling, or statistics. 3+ years of experience with Python/Java/C++

Negotiable
Singapore
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Quantitative Developer C++

We are looking for an adept Quantitative C++ Developer to join our team. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of both traditional and digital asset markets. You will work closely with our traders and developers to create and implement innovative trading systems and strategies. Key Responsibilities: Identify and resolve technical trading issues, implementing automated solutions. Collaborate with traders to develop and execute bespoke trading systems and risk management strategies. Conduct independent research to generate statistically sound Alpha using data-driven methods. Work with fellow developers to enhance the efficiency and algorithms of our proprietary trading software built in C++. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or higher in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field. Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in high-frequency trading or options market making. Proficient in C++ with experience in modern C++ (C++20 or later). Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Solid understanding of networking and Linux OS. Experience in designing/developing low-latency trading systems, market data, or exchange connectivity. Experience with Python (pandas, Jupyter Notebook, and other data analysis tools) is a plus. Experience with crypto trading is a plus. Excellent communication skills and the ability to contribute to technical discussions. Intellectual curiosity and a genuine interest in trading and financial/crypto markets. Proficiency in business-level written and verbal English.

Negotiable
Hong Kong
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Quantitative Research Engineer

I've recently partnered with the CIO of a premier Global Quantitative Trading Fund that is looking to bring on a Quant Research Engineer as a growth hire. The small knit and collaborative team is made up ex. Tier 1 buy-side individuals and promotes a laid back working culture. You'd also have the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with highly knowledgeable quantitative researchers to drive the development of their cutting-edge in-house trading platform. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation, this is the perfect opportunity for you! Qualifications: BS or MS in Computer Science, Mathematics or a similar Quantitative Degree Proficiency in both C++ and Python Experience in Machine Learning, Infrastructure Development, and High Performance Computing (HPC) Must be coming from a top tier tech firm or buy-side shop

US$175000 - US$225000 per year + Performance Bonus
New York
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Director Fixed Income / Rates Quantitative Analyst (Paris)

A tier-1 Investment Bank is looking for a Director level front office quant to join their fixed income business in Paris. The role will feature working very closely with the rates desk and covers both linear and non linear products. The team have some exceptional junior profiles that will support. Although the role is an individual contributor position, you will have ample opportunity to mentor members of the team and be a strategic lead on projects. We are looking for Senior individuals from a front office quant background with exposure to either linear or non linear products (or both). Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement advanced quantitative models for rates products including swaps, bonds, hybrids, exotics, options and more. Provide analytical support to traders, helping to optimize trading strategies. Provide direction and oversight of strategic projects to support the business. Mentor and guide junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Qualifications: Advanced degree (PhD or Master's) in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, or Finance. Extensive experience in quantitative analysis within the financial industry, particularly focused on rates products. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python and C++, or similar (C# and Python are also fine). Excellent problem-solving abilities and a keen attention to detail. Proven ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

โ‚ฌ235000 - โ‚ฌ500000 per annum
Paris
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Vice President - XVA Quantitative Analyst

A Top Investment Bank in London is looking for a Quantitative Analyst to join a leading Global Quantitative Analytics team, responsible for developing pricing, execution, and risk management models. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex financial modelling challenges, directly impacting trading activity and risk management strategies. You will collaborate closely with trading, risk, and technology teams, contributing to the development of XVA pricing models and counterparty credit risk analytics. Key Responsibilities Developing pricing models for XVA and Counterparty Credit Risk, ensuring accurate and efficient calculations. Designing calculation methodologies and implementing them in C++, adhering to best practices in quantitative development. Working alongside global quant teams to ensure consistency and integration with the broader quant analytics library. Conducting model testing, backtesting, and performance validation using historical market data. Explaining and demonstrating model calculations to traders, risk managers, and technology teams. Supporting trading desks with quantitative analysis and modelling solutions. What They're Looking For Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with the ability to solve complex modelling problems. Proficiency in C++ for numerical computing and quantitative development. Solid understanding of investment banking, derivatives pricing, and XVA modelling. Knowledge of counterparty credit risk modelling and risk management frameworks. Strong background in probability, quantitative finance, numerical methods, optimisation, and time-series analysis. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across trading, risk, and technology teams. A Master's or PhD in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) discipline from a leading academic institution. Why Join? This is an opportunity to be part of a high-impact quant team, working on cutting-edge financial models that shape trading decisions. You will gain exposure to complex derivative products, advanced risk analytics, and real-world quantitative finance challenges in a highly collaborative environment.

Negotiable
City of London
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Director, Quant Developer - Derivatives

I am working directly with the head of a quantitative research engineering team at a global asset manager, which focuses on providing worldwide technology and support to all the investment management, research, trading, and investment operations functions internally. The team has been tasked with launching a new platform in interest rate derivatives and seeking a quantitative developer specializing in rates to focus on bringing the Portfolio Managers' ideas to life. You will be playing a key role in developing interest rates derivatives and other quantitative technology products to solve research problems for investment professionals/Portfolio Managers leading strategic quantitative research initiatives. This will included hands on library development for the new IR business. The role can sit out of their New York or Boston offices. Further responsibilities/qualifications below: Minimum 5 years of experience in software engineering Master's degree in a Computer Science or a related field Strong knowledge of interest rate derivatives Expert in Python OR Java Prior experience developing applications for asset management and or global markets

US$300000 - US$350000 per year
New York
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Systematic Trader

We are currently working with an international HFT market maker that is looking to expand their presence in Shanghai. Objectives Daily Operations Management: Oversee the systematic trading platform, collaborating with developers and researchers. Market Understanding: Gain expertise in market microstructure, regulations, and trading strategies to support business expansion. Platform Improvement: Continuously enhance the trading platform's performance and capabilities. Performance Monitoring: Track market trends and strategy performance to inform decision-making. Risk Management: Navigate macro event risks and manage trading playbooks effectively. Trading Authority: Hold responsibility for risk management and trading decisions. Skills and Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in STEM, Finance, Economics, or Business from a reputable institution. Problem-Solving: Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills in a fast-paced environment. Electronic Trading Experience: Prior knowledge in electronic trading systems. Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Self-Starter: Motivated to learn and adapt to changes for successful outcomes. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Linux and Python.

Up to HK$1000000 per annum
Shanghai
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Quant Researcher

A leading prop trading firm is looking for a quant researcher, leveraging cutting-edge technology and quantitative strategies to drive financial market efficiency. Role Overview: As a Quantitative Researcher, you'll develop and implement quantitative models, conduct in-depth research, and collaborate with teams to optimize trading strategies and improve performance across markets. Key Responsibilities: Develop and test trading strategies using statistical and machine learning methods. Analyze large datasets to enhance algorithmic trading models. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve system performance. Qualifications: Advanced degree in a quantitative field (Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, etc.). Strong programming skills (Python, C++, etc.) and experience with machine learning. Solid understanding of quantitative finance and statistical analysis.

Negotiable
China
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Experienced Quant Researcher/Trader/PM

I am currently partnering with multiple Hedge Funds and HFT firms in APAC (Hong Kong, Singapore, Mainland China, Australia, Dubai and more) who are looking to build out their teams and hire Quant Researchers/Traders and Portfolio Managers. These are exclusive and confidential searches. Responsibilities: Develop alphas & signals that predict future price returns Work closely with developers for production implementation Parse data sets to be used for future alpha development Requirements: A degree in a technical discipline (computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, etc.) Experience applying statistical analysis on large data sets; Programming skills necessary to translate ideas into python code Desired Skills and Experience Financial Analysis, Computer Engineering, Analytical Skills, Trading Strategies, Statistical Analysis, Financial Instruments

Negotiable
Hong Kong
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Experienced Quant Researcher/Trader/PM

I am currently partnering with multiple Hedge Funds and HFT firms in APAC (Hong Kong, Singapore, Mainland China, Australia, Dubai and more) who are looking to build out their teams and hire Quant Researchers/Traders and Portfolio Managers. These are exclusive and confidential searches. Responsibilities: Develop alphas & signals that predict future price returns Work closely with developers for production implementation Parse data sets to be used for future alpha development Requirements: A degree in a technical discipline (computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, etc.) Experience applying statistical analysis on large data sets; Programming skills necessary to translate ideas into python code Desired Skills and Experience Financial Analysis, Computer Engineering, Analytical Skills, Trading Strategies, Statistical Analysis, Financial Instruments

Negotiable
Shanghai
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Experienced Quant Researcher/Trader/PM

I am currently partnering with multiple Hedge Funds and HFT firms in APAC (Hong Kong, Singapore, Mainland China, Australia, Dubai and more) who are looking to build out their teams and hire Quant Researchers/Traders and Portfolio Managers. These are exclusive and confidential searches. Responsibilities: Develop alphas & signals that predict future price returns Work closely with developers for production implementation Parse data sets to be used for future alpha development Requirements: A degree in a technical discipline (computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, etc.) Experience applying statistical analysis on large data sets; Programming skills necessary to translate ideas into python code Desired Skills and Experience Financial Analysis, Computer Engineering, Analytical Skills, Trading Strategies, Statistical Analysis, Financial Instruments

Negotiable
Singapore
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VP XVA Quantitative Analyst - London

A Tier 1 Investment Bank is currently looking to expand it's front office XVA Quant Analyst team. The team work closely with trading, and cover the complex modelling behind CVA, FVA and portfolio modelling. The team work very closely with the desk, and gain exposure to all asset classes. Ideal candidates will be a quantitative analyst coming from a front office XVA, front office rates or CCR-orientated background. Responsibilities: Building Analytics libraries for XVA pricing and risk-management Develop prototypes for a new best-in-class XVA engine Work Closely on tool-building to Support the XVA Traders Ad-hoc research projects to which you will have autonomy on. Requirements: 3+ Years Experience in a similar Quantitative Role Technical Programming Skills in C++ and Python (C#/JAVA and python backgrounds also considered) Fixed Income Product Knowledge (Rates, Credit or Fx) Strong Written and Verbal Communication Skills

Negotiable
London
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Quants News & Insights

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Key Insights & Takeaways from QuantMinds 2023

โ€‹โ€‹Selby Jennings' talent acquisition experts from Europe, the USA, and Asia attended QuantMinds 2023 in London in November - the world's leading quant finance event. Alex Morris, Vice President - Quantitative Analytics at Selby Jennings Europe, shares his key takeaways from the event, including current and future market trends and their impacts on hiring.What trends have you seen and heard about at QuantMinds that will continue to have an impact in the coming year?QuantMinds, as always, was an excellent chance for some of the very best in the industry to discuss the latest advancements. Machine learning, volatility, portfolio optimisation and more were discussed at length. I think it was a trickier year than expected for the majority of investment banks. What happened to big players such as Credit Suisse earlier in the year had a large shock effect on the market. Weโ€™re still waiting to see the full implications, but as a result, most investment banks are still finalising their hiring plans for next year. Larger hedge funds and prop shops, however, have relied on diversification to continue growing in both headcount and AUM. They are getting increasingly better at identifying markets from which to gain additional market share. Weโ€™ve seen buy side firms branching into new frequencies, strategies, and asset classes. On the whole, there are ambitious growth plans for 2024. What is the impact and potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in finance?Machine learning has been one of the hottest topics discussed at QuantMinds over the past couple of years. Speakers have discussed its utilisation for a wide range of projects. Its potential can be harnessed for automating BAU processes, derivative pricing and alpha generating strategies.What was more hotly debated this year, however, was the governance processes that will need to be introduced simultaneously. Machine learning can sometimes result in undesirable outcomes, and many in the industry are asking to which degree a human overlay should be needed. What are some of the biggest challenges companies are facing when hiring talent in quants?Securing top talent in the quant space is getting increasingly competitive. Itโ€™s an incredibly candidate-driven market and firms will do everything they can to retain their employees. Compensation packages are amongst the most competitive in the industry, non-compete periods can be in excess of 12 months, and counter offers are made for almost every candidate. It was pleasing to hear that improving diversity within teams remains a big priority for most of the hiring managers that attended. It of course can be tougher within the quant space than other areas, but examples of effective initiatives are ensuring a diverse interview panel, using non-biased job advertisements, and creating an empathy-driven culture to attract and retain a diverse workforce. What are your key takeaways for hiring managers from this year's QuantMinds conference?With the diversification plans, as touched upon previously, competition for talent within certain markets is becoming increasingly fierce. More firms are now competing for the same revenue generating candidates, and thus itโ€™s important to do everything possible throughout interview processes to get alpha generators onboard. In order to make yourselves as attractive as possible to candidates, ensure to lean on your talent partner for guidance. They can offer insight into how youโ€™re perceived in the market, how competitive your compensation structure is, and for each candidate can tune into the specific motivational factors impacting a decision.Looking to hire? Are you looking to hire the best talent in financial sciences & services? Contact Alex Morris for more information, or request a call back and our experts will get in touch with you. โ€‹ โ€‹

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Quantitative Analytics Salary Guide Europe 2023

โ€‹In Europeโ€™s financial services sector, thereโ€™s a consistent demand for professionals in Quantitative Analytics, Research & Trading. Requirements for professionals across front and back office, covering the entire lifecycle from coding and validation to derivative pricing and automating functions, is astronomically high.Having guidance on salary and industry trends is crucial for hiring managers and professionals alike. Our latest salary guide offers in-depth information on compensation, broken down by job roles and experience levels. Donโ€™t miss these essential insights - download your copy of the Selby Jennings Quantitative Analytics Salary Guide Europe 2023 here:โ€‹โ€‹

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The Great Return: From Crypto Back to Traditional Finance

In recent years, the financial world has been rocked by the meteoric rise of cryptocurrencies. A lot of talented quants and traders, attracted to crypto's volatile prices and potentially massive returns, shifted their attention away from traditional markets and dove headfirst into crypto native funds. However, the tides seem to be shifting once again, and there's a noticeable migration back to the world of traditional finance. Why? Let's delve deeper.The Similarities in Pricing EnginesFor those who might not be well-versed in the intricacies of the financial world, pricing engines are essential tools used by traders to make quick buy or sell decisions based on a myriad of variables. These engines are especially vital in areas such as electronic FX (foreign exchange) trading.Interestingly, many of the pricing engines used in electronic FX trading are quite similar to those employed in the crypto market. This makes the transition between the two markets relatively seamless for quants and traders, so when the dynamic crypto market turns, the familiarity with traditional finance pricing engines might draw them back.The Volatility of the Crypto MarketWhile volatility can be profitable for traders, it can also be perilous. The crypto market, in particular, is known for its extreme fluctuations, sometimes swinging by double-digit percentages in a single day. This kind of uncertainty can be exhilarating for some, but draining for others. The fatigue from such intense volatility might be one of the reasons driving traders back to the more stable, albeit less exciting, realm of traditional finance.Regulatory ConcernsThe crypto world has always existed in a kind of regulatory gray area. As governments and financial institutions around the world grapple with how to classify and regulate cryptocurrencies, traders and funds operating in this space are constantly on their toes. This regulatory unpredictability can be a significant source of risk and stress, making traditional markets with established regulations appear more attractive.The Quest for StabilityDespite the potential for massive profits in the crypto world, the allure of stability and a steady paycheck can be tempting. Traditional finance, with its established institutions, regular trading hours, and relatively predictable market movements, offers a level of security that the 24/7 rollercoaster of crypto trading might not.Broader Market DynamicsWhile the crypto market offers a limited (though growing) number of assets to trade, traditional markets, including FX, commodities, equities, and bonds, provide a diverse array of opportunities. This breadth can be appealing for traders looking to diversify their strategies and risk profiles.It's essential to recognize that while there's a noted shift of quants and traders moving back to traditional finance, this doesn't signify the decline or dismissal of cryptocurrencies. The crypto market is still young, evolving, and undeniably influential. However, this migration underscores the enduring appeal and resilience of traditional financial markets. As the landscape of global finance continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how these migrations and intersections between the old and new financial worlds shape the future.If you're a firm or individual looking to harness the expertise of quants professionals, especially during these dynamic times, we have the right resources for you. Toby Hill, our seasoned expert in matching financial talent with demanding roles, is at your service. To get started and discuss your requirements, please request a call back by completing the form below.Request a Call Back

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The Real Alpha: Unleashing Talent in Quantitative Finance Hiring

โ€‹Demand for Quantitative Analytics, Research & Trading professionals is always increasing in the financial services industry. It can be a challenge for hiring managers without the right talent partner to attract and retain the best Quants, meaning having guidance on salary and industry trends is crucial in getting the right workforce in place for the years ahead.Similarly, professionals with the right skills and expertise in Quantitative Analytics, Research & Trading can find themselves in a position of too much choice, with a wide range of attractive opportunities all vying for them, meaning many professionals are curious about whether their salaries and bonuses match their peers.Discover talent challenges and opportunities across Quantitative Analytics, Research & Trading, which includes insights on: A comprehensive overview of the Quants space Strategies for successful hiring of QuantsSalary overviews for the US, Europe, and APACA bonus chapter on women in Quants Key takeaways for those hiring and professionals considering their next move Download โ€˜The Real Alphaโ€™ now. โ€‹

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Expanding Quants Talent in the UK

The United Kingdom's status as a global financial hub relies on its ability to attract and develop top talent in the field of Quantitative Finance, commonly known as Quants. As the financial industry becomes increasingly data-driven and technology-centric, the demand for skilled Quants professionals continues to rise. Expanding the Quants talent pool in the UK is not only crucial for maintaining the country's competitive edge but also for driving innovation and economic growth. In this article, we will explore the importance of expanding Quants talent in the UK and discuss strategies to achieve this goal.Strengthening Academic ProgramsOne of the primary avenues for expanding Quants talent in the UK is through strengthening academic programs. Collaborations between universities, industry practitioners, and regulatory bodies can help design and update curricula that align with the evolving needs of the finance industry. This involves integrating courses on advanced mathematics, statistical modeling, computer science, and financial theory to provide students with a comprehensive skill set required in the Quants field.Additionally, universities can establish partnerships with financial institutions to offer internships, apprenticeships, and research opportunities. Such programs provide students with practical exposure to real-world financial scenarios, fostering a seamless transition from academia to the industry. By enhancing the quality and relevance of academic programs, the UK can produce a steady stream of highly skilled quants professionals.Promoting Continuous Professional DevelopmentExpanding Quants talent in the UK also necessitates a focus on continuous professional development. The fast-paced nature of the finance industry demands that Quants professionals stay updated with the latest methodologies, technologies, and regulatory changes. Encouraging and supporting ongoing learning and professional certifications ensures that existing Quants talent remains relevant and adaptable.Financial institutions and industry organizations can play a pivotal role in this regard by offering training programs, workshops, and conferences tailored to the specific needs of Quants professionals. Collaborative initiatives between industry leaders, professional bodies, and academic institutions can provide access to cutting-edge research, industry insights, and networking opportunities, creating a culture of lifelong learning and growth.Fostering Industry-Academia PartnershipsStrong partnerships between the finance industry and academic institutions are essential for expanding Quants talent in the UK. Financial institutions can contribute to curriculum design, offer guest lectures, and provide industry projects or case studies that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Simultaneously, universities can establish career centers, organize job fairs, and facilitate networking events that connect students with potential employers in the finance industry.Collaborative research programs between academia and industry can also drive innovation in the field of Quantitative Finance. By bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application, these initiatives can yield valuable insights and advance the state-of-the-art in Quants methodologies.Encouraging Diversity and InclusionExpanding Quants talent in the UK should prioritize diversity and inclusion. Historically, the finance industry has faced challenges in achieving gender and ethnic diversity in Quants roles. To address this, efforts should be made to eliminate unconscious biases and promote equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.Financial institutions can implement diversity initiatives, such as mentorship programs and scholarships, to attract a diverse pool of talent. Collaboration with professional organizations focused on diversity in finance can also provide networking opportunities and support systems for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. By embracing diversity and inclusion, the UK can unlock a wider range of perspectives and experiences, leading to enhanced innovation and problem-solving within the Quants field.Partner with Selby Jennings to Unlock the Potential of Quants Talent ExpansionExpanding the Quants talent pool in the UK is crucial for driving innovation and maintaining a competitive edge in the finance industry. By partnering with Selby Jennings, a trusted talent consultancy specializing in the financial sector, organizations can access our extensive network, industry expertise, and tailored hiring strategies. At Selby Jennings, we understand the unique needs of the finance industry and can identify and attract top Quants professionals who align with your organizational objectives. To unlock the potential of Quants talent expansion, request a call back today and take the first step towards securing the niche talent available.

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How the AVP of Selby Jennings supports diversity in Quants

Konza Akhtar has seen many countries in her life. She was born in Pakistan and grew up in Hong Kong, then pursued her masterโ€™s degree in psychology in the UK. It was in London that she realized she loved working with people and joined Phaidon International as one of the first post-Covid hires.ย At Selby Jennings, Konza found a surprising use for her psychology degree in talent search. Two and a half years on the job, she is now moving into her first management role as Associate Vice President, specializing in placing Quants professionals in the research & trading, portfolio management and buyside/hedge fund space.What are you proudest of in your career?โ€œIโ€™m really proud of being a market specialist, and consulting senior quantitative portfolio managers in the hedge fund space. Sometimes, these professionals appear in the news, so being able to work with them and gain their trust and respect is what I am most proud of.โ€ย Why do you think itโ€™s important to celebrate International Womenโ€™s Day, especially in the workplace?โ€œI think it is very important to have a day like International Womenโ€™s Day that acknowledges what women have faced in the workplace, as some of the barriers we deal with are different compared to others. International Womenโ€™s Day starts conversations, and conversations are the first step in making changes.ย โ€œI attended the International Womenโ€™s Day celebrations last year at Phaidon International and felt the day was exceptional. The panels that were held felt like a safe space to share struggles and it was great to see the organization acknowledge it as well and appreciate the day. There have been so many changes since then, such as the Future Female Leaders Program and the Women In Sales awards, as well as developments across brands. We know and feel Phaidon International cares and is addressing the challenges we face as women.โ€How do you encourage gender diversity internally in your brand?ย โ€œIโ€™ve noticed that Iโ€™m starting to raise awareness in meetings, educating others on struggles they may not have considered. Addressing it first is a big step.ย โ€œI also support when weโ€™re interviewing consultants to come work for Selby Jennings. If weโ€™re hiring a female candidate, I think itโ€™s important that they can see someone like them in the business already, demonstrating to them that we have fostered a workplace that is diverse and that anyone can succeed.ย โ€œWhen we see others being successful, it shows that it is possible, so I hope Iโ€™m a proven point of success and an example to other women.โ€How do you encourage gender diversity in your sector?โ€œAt QuantMinds International 2022, I took part in a panel on diversity, and I was so impressed with the number of people that turned up from leading banks that were freely speaking about diversity and the struggle they find in sourcing diverse talent.ย Being able to contribute to that discussion was amazing. I provided context guidance, advice and afterwards I had attendees coming to me asking for solutions. I want to continue to be part of these conversations and help wherever possible to improve the situation.โ€What advice would you give your younger self?โ€œIโ€™d tell my younger self that itโ€™s okay to not have everything all sorted out. You might not be married by a certain age, or have a house or kids. Youโ€™ll probably feel younger than you are and you might never really know how to adult, or it may feel like that!ย There are no rules and you donโ€™t have to do anything you donโ€™t want. I wish I was able to have been unapologetically myself, so donโ€™t let comments get to you. If you have been called too direct or too punchy, donโ€™t internalize it, just continue to be yourself.โ€For more interviews with the inspiring women at Phaidon International, please visit our hub here.

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The Future of Quants

โ€‹โ€‹Interested in how to attract, retain and promote quantitative talent? Or keen to find out as a Quants professional whether your pay matches your peers?Quantitative expertise in financial services is a highly sought-after skill, and there is no doubt that the job markets for Quants is going from strength to strength.Naturally, many professionals are curious about whether their salaries and bonuses match their peers. For hiring managers grappling to stay competitive to attract and retain talent, having guidance on salary and industry trends is crucial in getting the right workforce in place for the years ahead.Discover the latest report on โ€˜The Future of Quantsโ€™, covering the talent challenges and opportunities across quantitative research & trading, which includes insights on:The 5 hot trends in Quants to know about10 key strategies to retain Quant talentโ€‹Salary & bonus guidance across the US, Europe & APACโ€‹โ€‹Download your copy by completing the form below:โ€‹

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Quants Global Market Report 2021

โ€‹With an extremely active hiring market and an increase in demand for specialist talent, our Quants Recruitment team has produced a Global Market Report 2021 to share key insights and trends from across the industry.โ€‹This market report discusses insights on:โ€ข Execution stratโ€™s and High-Frequency Tradingโ€ข The continued growth of Systematic Fixed Income Tradingโ€ข How Quant firms are diversifying their business mixโ€ข The growth of digital assetsโ€ข Geographic trendsโ€ข Compensation reportsโ€‹Complete the form below to download the full report:

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What Should We Be Teaching the Next Generation of Quants?

โ€‹โ€‹Oliver Cooke, Managing Director of North America, has been invited to QuantMinds Americas to moderate the much-anticipated panel, โ€œWhat should we be teaching the next generation of quants?โ€ The panel will discuss the future of quant talent and skills, as well as exploring how quant modeling compares across different sectors. Looking ahead to the event, Cooke shares some key themes that he looks forward to hearing more about from the esteemed panel. Quantitative finance has evolved dramatically in the last 30 years. Quants have gone from a group of individuals operating in a think-tank style environment, fairly separate from the front-office, to being a key extension of any trading desk, client-facing and the most sought after talent in the market. One of the key developments that came out of QuantMinds International in Vienna, this past May, was how ubiquitous machine learning and AI techniques have become in any quant's day-to-day. Although many of these techniques have been around for decades, they are now have become more mainstream. There are even examples of applying AI techniques to more traditional quantitative problems such as option pricing. Itโ€™s clear that any up-and-coming quant should be educating themselves and actively practicing machine learning and AI techniques as they will only become more relevant in the future.The rise of the 'Quantitative strategist' (or 'strat') was pioneered by the likes of Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley more than 15 years ago. Almost every bank now has a quant 'strat' team or has that model as part of their entire approach to quantitative support. What does that mean? That quants are a true extension of the trading desk. That they need to have a high level of quantitative skill, alongside computer science ability, topped off with true business understanding and soft skills to work with the trading desk to implement their solutions. Having both technical and soft skills is becoming essential in order to be a top quant in the industry. Finally, quants have the opportunity to help firms solve wider business challenges through the use of data and analytics. We are lucky enough to have an amazing, world-class panel of practitioners joining us for panel discussion at QuantMinds Americas. In particular, Afsheen Afshar and Shimon Senderowitz have been at major organizations such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan and Blackrock. In these groups, they have been using quantitative and data science techniques to solve key business challenges. This shows the wider impact quants can have both within finance and beyond, solving organizational challenges, talent challenges, efficiency and operational challenges. This means that the options for up and coming quants to apply their skillset in different ways is vast and will only become bigger in the future. QuantMinds Americas will bring together experts from banks, investment managers, regulators, Silicon Valley, academia and beyond, to learn, network and share expertise on the future of the quant industry. Attendees will hear about the latest breakthrough research, as well as the biggest issues facing the industry, from some of the worldโ€™s most revered quant thought-leaders.Registration for both QuantMinds Americas, and the co-located RiskMinds Americas is now open. Click below, and enjoy an exclusive 15% discount on your registration for either event. โ€‹-----------------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.ย Contact usย to find out how Selby Jennings can help you.

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The Growth of Quants in Investment Banks Image
quantitative-research-and-trading

The Growth of Quants in Investment Banks

โ€‹Picture an investment bank drawn in a โ€˜Whereโ€™s Waldo?โ€™ style. Youโ€™ve got traders, finance, the legal team and management; human resources and an IT team hammering away at their keyboards. Where would you expect to find quantitative analysts (quants)?Ten years ago, quants would have been tucked away on trading desks, inputting data into Excel spreadsheets and working through it manually to uncover patterns and statistics. Their findings would help traders to confirm the right price and most promising investment options.Skip forwards a decade and the role of the quant has changed substantially. For the most part, they are now incorporated into risk management teams, instead of being on a trading desk. There are more of them, they are a more diverse group and they use new tools to carry out different tasks. They are in considerable demand and much valued by financial organizations. What brought about this change?Why are there more quants?The last decade has seen a breath-taking speed of technological development. Analytic software combined with increased opportunities to gather data have led to Big Data: more information, collected more quickly. There are sophisticated tools to integrate, sort and process this data into state-of-the-art models.Electronic modeling now means that trading can be carried out by computers, based on an algorithm calculation of the most favorable moment to buy and sell. If algorithms are often the brawn behind hedge funds, investment banks, asset management services and private equity firms, quants are the brains: they program the algorithms that make the system work.Quants are also used more and more in the business of risk, helping to calculate probabilities and statistics using advanced modeling. This enables risk management teams to keep on the right side of an increasing volume of laws and procedures needed to manage risks appropriately.There are now many more quants employed in this reformulated role, shifting from revenue generation to risk management. Banks require quants for a range of functions including the valuation aspects of derivatives and pricing.A more diverse quant workforceAnother notable change in the last decade is the increasing diversity of the quant workforce. Although this STEM-related field used to be dominated by men from a similar background, intake is now much broader and includes many women. Female quants talent is much in demand by banks seeking to improve the diversity of their teams.As with other STEM areas, fewer women studying related subjects such as Math and Physics means this female talent is hard to find. When female quants are recruited to firms, employers have an additional incentive to keep them motivated and committed to the role, in an effort to retain this highly sought after talent.The use of models and tools: a systematic or discretionary approach?The development of algorithms, machine learning and related tools has transformed the nature of quantitative analysis. Quants need to ensure that data is interpreted and presented in the best possible way, but there is very little inputting and processing done through human labor any more.This has led to a divergence of opinion in the best way to approach investment decisions. As Leda Braga, a high-flying quant known as the โ€˜Queen of Quantsโ€™ has said, trading is now dominated by two approaches to decision-making: systematic and discretionary.A discretionary approach to trading is based on the traderโ€™s own thought processes and decision-making skills. Systematic trading uses technology to indicate the best investment strategies, using algorithms to process reams of data. Quants are essential to the systematic approach, which is gaining in popularity.However, the discretionary approach is still very common, particularly because people tend to respond more vehemently to an error made by an algorithm than an error made by a human. As Braga observes: โ€œWe scrutinize the algos with a lot less tolerance than we scrutinize human action.โ€What does it take to be a good quant?To be successful as a quant, strong analytical skills are a must. Most professionals have advanced computer programming abilities, typically using SQL for database management and perhaps an object-oriented language such as Python or R to clean, sort and process data.Quants usually have advanced degrees in a STEM subject, such as computer science, mathematics or physics. A PhD in one of these subjects is common.ย  There is also increasing popularity of financial engineering masterโ€™s degrees such as financial engineering or quantitative/mathematical finance.Could your team benefit from having a quant on board? Emailinfo@selbyjennings.comto learn more about what they could do for your business.ย ------------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.ย Contact usย to find out how Selby Jennings can help you.

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