Programming in sales and trading
Hi all,
I am currently recruiting for ER, but also like the look of s&t.
The only thing that puts me off of it is the fact that the trading element will likely involve programming which I do not know how to do.
Is it possible to get a SA position without programming knowledge or is it worthless to apply for this role?
Thank you in advance!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Sales in S&T: Sales roles in Sales & Trading (S&T) are more reliant on social skills and emotional intelligence rather than a quant background or programming skills. Most salespeople at bulge bracket banks (BBs) are intelligent and can pick up enough knowledge to sell successfully without needing a quant background or programming skills.
Programming in Trading: For trading roles, there is a significant push for candidates with quant backgrounds and programming skills. This is because trading often involves complex quantitative analysis and algorithmic strategies.
Sales Desks: Even in sales, having some programming knowledge, such as VBA, can be beneficial. Sales desks have become more technical over time, and any programming skill is considered a plus.
Career Path: If you are more inclined towards roles that do not heavily rely on programming, focusing on sales within S&T might be a better fit for you. However, having some basic programming knowledge can still be advantageous and might open up more opportunities within the field.
In summary, while programming skills are more critical for trading roles, they are not strictly necessary for sales roles in S&T. If you are interested in S&T but lack programming skills, you can still pursue sales positions and potentially learn some basic programming to enhance your profile.
Sources: Does sales in S&T require a quant background or programming skills?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/sales-in-st-dead-end-career-path-in-2020?customgpt=1, Is Programming a must for SnT Division?, MSF Question and Answer, Sales in S&T: Dead-end career path in 2020?
Read the job description and see what is required. No harm in applying, no one expects you to be an expert for an SA role. However, you should be able to demonstrate an interest in learning / developing upon your current skillset with the desired programming language and S&T in general.
Aut dignissimos animi laboriosam fuga tempora provident recusandae. Non saepe cupiditate consequuntur asperiores quasi dolores porro. Sed sapiente dolorem eligendi consequatur ex sapiente itaque.
Doloremque tenetur consequatur nam fugit est magnam velit. Sit consectetur et optio quia ea odit. Cumque et aut rerum et.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...