Sales & Trading Talent Recruitment | Selby Jennings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experience

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

Network

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

Knowledge

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

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

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

Sales and Trading Jobs

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

FX Automation Sales/Risk management - VP - London

FX Automation Sales/Risk Management VP Position - London This permanent Vice President-level opportunity calls for an individual with a passion for innovation in sales strategies combined with deep insights into automated trading solutions. Your expertise will play a pivotal role in expanding our reach across corporate entities while ensuring robust risk management practices that align with strategic objectives. Key Responsibilities: - Drive growth by identifying new business opportunities within Foreign Exchange (FX) markets. - Develop advanced automated systems tailored towards enhancing client engagement and transaction efficiency. - Lead initiatives aimed at minimizing risks associated through innovative technological platforms. - Forge strong relationships with key stakeholders including internal teams as well as external clients. Relevant Skills Explained: Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to negotiate deals effectively, driving revenue growth whilst maintaining excellent customer relations Automation Knowledge: Proficiency or keen interest in utilizing technology-driven solutions such as algorithmic trading tools designed specifically for Forex Markets Risk Assessment & Strategy: Aptitude for evaluating potential pitfalls inherent within foreign currency transactions coupled alongside crafting preemptive measures If this sounds like your ideal challenge, we encourage those who thrive when steering high-stakes decisions amidst evolving market landscapes to apply now!

Negotiable

London

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Repo Trader - Associate

A leading financial institution's in Dublin office are seeking a Repo Trading Associate. The ideal candidate will have 1-2 years of repo trading experience and a proven ability to trade within the financial sector. Key Responsibilities: Execute repo trades and deliver tailored financing solutions. Collaborate with internal teams to provide market insights and strategies. Identify new business opportunities within the financial community. Qualifications: 1-2 years of repo trading experience. Strong understanding of repo markets and products. Excellent communication and relationship management skills. On Offer: Competitive salary with performance-based bonus. Comprehensive benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth within a leading financial institution.

Negotiable

Dublin

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Repo Sales - Associate

A leading financial institution in London is seeking a Repo Sales Associate. The ideal candidate will have 1-2 years of repo sales experience and a proven ability to manage and grow relationships within the financial sector. Key Responsibilities: Manage and expand relationships with institutional clients. Execute repo transactions and deliver tailored financing solutions. Collaborate with internal teams to provide market insights and strategies. Identify new business opportunities within the financial community. Qualifications: 1-2 years of repo sales experience. Strong understanding of repo markets and products. Excellent communication and relationship management skills. On Offer: Competitive salary with performance-based bonus. Comprehensive benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth within a leading financial institution.

Negotiable

City of London

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Senior Sales Trader Nordics

Job Title: Senior Sales Trader Nordics - Carbon Trading in Stockholm Our client is seeking a Senior Sales Trader with expertise in carbon markets to join their dynamic team in Stockholm. As a key member, you will be responsible for developing sales strategies and fostering relationships across renewable sectors in the Nordic region. Key Responsibilities: - Develop tailored sales tactics for commodity trading in renewable energy. - Manage customer relations using CRM tools. - Utilise fluency in Swedish to communicate with local clients. - Participate in carbon market trend analysis. Required Skills & Experience: - 1-6 years of sales experience with a proven track record of success. - Fluent in spoken and written Swedish. - Proficient in CRM software. - Knowledgeable about carbon market trends and emissions rights dealings. Join us in contributing to global environmental conservation efforts while excelling professionally. Apply now!

Negotiable

Netherlands

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French Credit Sales

Our client, a global investment bank, are looking to add an experienced Credit Sales person to their growing Frankfurt team. They are interested in reviewing profiles ranging from VP to Director level. The right candidate will have: In-depth knowledge & experience (5+ years) with Credit Sales. A strong client base of French institutional clients (can be asset managers, pension funds etc.) Credit product expertise - this role will include primarily IG Credit, but knowledge of HY, ABS, CLOs or Repo is also advantageous. The ability to meet & exceed sales targets through innovative investment solutions. Please apply now to learn more about this great opportunity.

bonus, benefits

Frankfurt (Oder)

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AVP Public Sector FX Derivatives Sales & Structuring

**Assistant Vice President Public Sector FX Derivatives Sales & Structuring - Amsterdam** Are you ready to take on a pivotal role in the financial services sector? We are seeking an ambitious and dynamic professional for the position of Assistant Vice President, specializing in Public Sector Foreign Exchange (FX) Derivatives Sales & Structuring. Situated at the heart of Amsterdam's thriving business district, this permanent opportunity places you within a prestigious institution committed to innovation and excellence. In your new capacity: - You will work closely with both external counterparties and internal teams. - Your expertise will be instrumental in originating local currency solutions that meet our clients' intricate needs. - Craft bespoke hedging strategies as part of our comprehensive service offering. Your primary responsibilities include acquiring new business avenues, structurally enhancing transactional operations through negotiation skills, followed by executing high-stakes currency derivative transactions efficiently. Relevant Skills: * **Fund Management:** Oversee portfolios requiring acute market insightfulness while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards - safeguarding client interests foremostly * **Sales Acumen:** Forge robust relationships; identify potential growth segments coupled with strategic pitching prowess tailored specifically towards public-sector entities * **Currency Market Savvy:** Possess up-to-date knowledge concerning FX markets facilitating informed decision-making during deal origination or restructuring This is more than just another job-it's where your ambition meets global impact. If you're prepared to influence change across borders-and have relevant experience-we would like to hear from you!

Negotiable

Amsterdam

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VP/Director - China Macro Sales

We're representing a tier-1 investment bank in Hong Kong looking to hire a mid-senior level China Macro Sales professional to their team in Hong Kong. This position will act as the person in-charge for any China macro related transactions. Responsibilities: Develop comprehensive product knowledge and foster client relationships to align sales strategies with the bank's objectives. Gain a deep understanding of client needs and expectations through regular contact and continuous research of suitable sales solutions. Collaborate with origination, trading, research, client services, and operations teams to ensure seamless end-to-end client/product delivery. Adhere to relevant legal, regulatory, and bank policy requirements. Identify and engage prospective clients, building relationships to drive future sales and repeat business. Requirements: Solid education background attained from reputable institutions with relevant majors Strong experience with proven track record of generating revenue within the FX/rates space Wide network of connections across China financial institutions Proficiency in both spoken and written Mandarin and English

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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FX Corporate Sales - Associate - Madrid

Key Responsibilities: Client Coverage: Build and manage relationships with Spanish corporate clients, providing tailored risk management solutions and market insights. Sales Execution: Work with trading, structuring, and research teams to deliver and execute sales strategies effectively. Market Analysis: Track macroeconomic trends and deliver relevant updates to clients. Compliance: Ensure all activities meet regulatory standards. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or similar. 3+ years of macro sales experience, ideally with corporate clients. Fluent in Spanish and English. Strong analytical, communication, and client-facing skills. What We Offer: An opportunity to grow within a leading investment bank, access to training, and involvement in impactful sales initiatives.

Negotiable

Madrid

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FXEM Sales - VP - FRA Institutional Clients

VP - FX/EM Rates Sales (French Banks) A top investment bank is hiring a VP - FX/EM Rates Sales specialist to manage French bank clients. Responsibilities: Build and maintain relationships with French banks, offering FX and EM rates solutions. Collaborate with internal teams to deliver tailored services. Stay updated on FX/EM markets to identify client opportunities. Requirements: Proven experience in FX/EM rates sales, with a focus on French banks. Fluency in French and English. Strong product knowledge and client relationship skills.

Negotiable

Paris

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FX Institutional Sales - Associate

FX Institutional Sales Associate - Hedge Fund Clients Location: London, UK Job Description: A top financial institution in London is seeking an FX Institutional Sales Associate with a focus on hedge fund clients. The ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of FX sales experience and a proven ability to manage and grow relationships within the hedge fund sector. Key Responsibilities: Manage and expand relationships with hedge fund clients. Execute FX transactions and deliver tailored solutions. Collaborate with internal teams to provide market insights and strategies. Identify new business opportunities within the hedge fund community. Qualifications: 2-4 years of FX sales experience, preferably with hedge funds. Strong understanding of FX markets and products. Excellent communication and relationship management skills. What We Offer: Competitive salary with performance-based bonus. Comprehensive benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth within a leading financial institution.

Negotiable

England

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FX/IR Corporate Sales - Associate

Key Responsibilities: Client Relationship Management: Build, maintain, and deepen relationships with corporate clients, understanding their specific FX and Rates needs and challenges. Proactively identify opportunities to deliver value-added solutions based on market developments and client goals. Product Expertise: Provide expert knowledge on a wide range of FX and Rates products, including spot, forwards, options, and swaps. Advise clients on appropriate hedging strategies, risk management solutions, and market opportunities. Sales and Execution: Execute FX and Rates transactions with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring the highest standards of service and compliance. Liaise with internal trading desks to ensure competitive pricing and optimal execution for clients. Market Intelligence: Stay updated on macroeconomic trends, geopolitical risks, and regulatory changes that impact the FX and Rates markets. Share real-time insights and analysis with clients to support their decision-making processes. Client Acquisition and Onboarding: Support the acquisition of new corporate clients, working closely with the legal, compliance, and onboarding teams to ensure smooth integration and compliance with regulatory standards. Cross-Selling Opportunities: Work collaboratively with other product teams to identify cross-selling opportunities, including cash management, structured products, and debt capital markets, to deepen client engagement. Revenue Generation: Actively contribute to the overall revenue and growth objectives of the FX and Rates desk by building long-term client relationships and identifying new business opportunities. Collaboration: Partner with trading, research, and structuring teams to ensure a comprehensive approach to client needs. Leverage internal resources to provide a seamless and integrated experience for clients. Key Qualifications: Experience: 2-4 years of experience in FX, Rates, or related financial markets, preferably within a corporate sales or client-facing role. Experience working with corporate clients in France and other European markets is highly advantageous. Education: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or a related discipline. A relevant professional qualification (e.g., CFA, FRM) is a plus. Technical Skills: Proficient in FX and Rates products with a solid understanding of hedging strategies and market dynamics. Familiarity with trading platforms such as Bloomberg, Reuters, and other market tools. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret market data, assess risks, and propose appropriate financial solutions to clients. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and French. The ability to present complex financial concepts clearly to clients is essential. Client Management Skills: Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships. A client-focused attitude with an ability to anticipate needs and provide innovative solutions. Team-Oriented: A team player who thrives in a collaborative, high-energy environment. Capable of working across different teams and departments to achieve shared objectives. Adaptability: Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple client needs, and adapt to changing market conditions. Why Join Us? This role offers the opportunity to work in a high-profile investment bank within a global financial hub. The successful candidate will gain exposure to diverse markets and high-caliber clients, while being part of a dynamic team that values innovation and client service excellence. You'll have the chance to grow within the organization, develop key skills in corporate sales, and contribute meaningfully to the success of the FX and Rates business.

Negotiable

Paris

Apply

FX/IR Corporate Sales - Associate

Negotiable

Paris

Apply

Sales and Trading News & Insights

sales-and-trading

The Best Cities for Commodities Jobs

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

sales-and-trading

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

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

commodities

Adapting Hiring Strategies to the Changing Commodities Landscape

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

sales-and-trading

Selby Jennings Partners with The Trading Show Chicago

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

sales-and-trading

Selby Jennings Partnership with The Trading Show Americas 2020

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

sales-and-trading

Hardware Acceleration in Trading: Introduction and Hiring Outlook

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

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