Career change: physicals->sales/trading
Hey all,
Been a physical trader in ags for over 5 years but wanting to move into a role that covers something more like macro analysis of markets involving geopolitics, interest rates, still commodities to an extent but not restrained to ag. I’m thinking either some sort of macro analyst or maybe institutional sales of some sorts?
Just looking for feedback or advice from those who have been there done that or even to connect with anyone who may be looking or has hired someone with a background that parallels mine. I’m self admittedly not the most technical as my career math involves basic conversions, lots of negotiation, and reading of futures etc. but am quite well versed in how commodity supply chains and what not work both domestically and internationally and what affects those.
Weird as I know my position typically is the exit opp for most. Appreciate any help and if I can give back in any way regarding what I do I’m glad to help via PM as well.
Thanks gang
Based on previous WSO threads, here are some insights and advice for transitioning from a physical trader in agricultural commodities to a role involving macro analysis or institutional sales:
Leverage Your Experience:
Networking:
Skill Development:
Targeted Applications:
Branding Yourself:
Seek Advice from Peers:
Consider Internal Moves:
By focusing on these areas, you can effectively position yourself for a successful transition into a role that aligns with your interests in macro analysis and institutional sales.
Sources: Q&A: I'm an Agricultural Commodities Trader, Physical Commodity Trading career: If you started over again., Physical Commodity Trading, 1 Year Update: Physical Trader, Transferring Commodities
Out of curiosity what’s your comp in Ags 5 years in?
Base sal ~100k and % of overall book so it fluctuates
ags is a scam
In the unfortunate process of finding out for myself a few years in lol. Swapped money for trading responsibility early on and yet to make the money side of the equation.
I had Cargill final round in winnipeg. so glad they rejected my ass. id still be a virgin, broke and sad if I got the job
please tell us more. true for all ags, what about coffee? one senior user on this board said most senior traders (5+) are at around 500k total comp
following
Never did answer your question, have seen a couple former colleagues who moved from ags to hedge funds in commodity trading roles and who do some macro stuff to trade in conjunction with their commodities but they had been trading paper after dealing physical. Haven't seen anybody do physical only to a macro role.
How did they get to trade paper after dealing physical only in the same shop?
Old thread but I went through a similar transition from physical operations to a more analytical role. What helped me was talking to a recruiter who understood both sides of the business. I worked with SCOPE Recruiting and they found me a role that valued my supply chain experience while letting me grow into the trading side. Your background in ags is a real asset. Do not underestimate how rare that operational knowledge is in a trading desk.
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