The Future of Financial Technology Hiring in Europe

2023 was a challenging year for the financial technology sector, with several leading investment banks and BigTech companies reducing headcounts, resulting in a lower demand for talent overall. The market became saturated with professionals seeking work, leading to increased competition for available roles.

In-demand talent

However, despite the overall reduction in demand, certain fintech skillsets remain highly sought after. Software and quant developers, especially those with expertise in data-intensive areas like web scraping and FPGA, are increasingly valuable in London. Likewise, DevOps and infrastructure specialists with a strong background in Kubernetes, Linux, and Infrastructure as Code (IaaC) are consistently in demand. Hedge funds are actively looking for C++ and Python talent, especially for roles in risk management, commodities, and fixed income.

Demand is also on the rise for professionals skilled in blockchain, cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, as these areas become critical for fintech innovation.

Further opportunities are emerging in regulatory technology and growing fintech markets such as the Middle East, Switzerland, and Paris, where new trading desks are opening up promising avenues for expansion.

Hiring challenges

Due to intense competition for niche roles, companies are placing greater emphasis on finding the right hires the first time. Interviews are now more challenging, with professionals required to clearly demonstrate their impact in previous roles and complete technical tests. As hiring managers navigate these complexities, it’s critical to streamline hiring processes and make expectations clear to secure top candidates, who are often juggling multiple offers even in a tighter market.

Why work with Selby Jennings

With the financial technology landscape constantly evolving, securing the right talent requires a partner who understands the nuances of this specialised market. By working with Selby Jennings, you’ll benefit from:

• Industry expertise and global reach: Our specialised consultants are deeply embedded in the fintech sector, with insights into trends and talent demands across key financial hubs, including London, New York, and the Middle East.
• Efficient, streamlined hiring: Our team works closely with hiring managers to clarify needs, streamline interviews, and make hiring decisions faster—ensuring you secure the right talent without delays.
• Exclusive talent network: Our premier network grants access to highly skilled professionals who may not be actively seeking roles on the open market, giving you a competitive advantage in securing the top 1% of fintech talent.
• Dedicated candidate support: We prepare candidates extensively, ensuring that they not only meet the technical requirements but also align with your organisation’s unique culture and vision.

If you’re looking to attract the best fintech professionals who can drive innovation and deliver results, we’re here to help. Request a call back today, and let Selby Jennings guide you in securing the talent that will help your organisation thrive.