Does tech team matter in BBs?
I got a FT offer for a software engineer role in a bulge bracket bank. The product I’ll be working on is pretty interesting, it would be the in house trading system. I’m not very sure if the front, middle, back office concepts apply to the tech team as well. I was thinking of utilising my engineering background as well as trading knowledge in the future to possibly move into trading roles. For anyone that has experience in the tech team of big banks, does the technology/product the team works on matter? What are teams that are usually most sought after? If anyone has any advice for moving from back office into S&T roles as I would desire, please feel free to advise as well! Thank you!
Background information: I am from a financial hub where technology firms are limited so the next best option is working in tech in big banks instead. I’m from Asia so the faang presence is already limited. Out of the faang companies, only Apple and Google offer fresh graduates SWE positions but they are mostly from intern converts.
Based on the WSO Dataset, the technology/product your team works on within a bulge bracket bank can significantly impact your career trajectory and opportunities for internal mobility, including a potential move into Sales & Trading (S&T).
Relevance of Tech Team's Product: The product you'll be working on, an in-house trading system, is highly relevant. This places you closer to the revenue-generating activities of the bank, which is a strategic advantage. Being involved in developing and maintaining trading systems can provide you with valuable insights into how trades are executed and managed, knowledge that is beneficial for a future role in S&T.
Front, Middle, Back Office Concepts in Tech: While traditionally these concepts apply more directly to roles directly involved in trading, investment management, and risk compliance, they can loosely translate to tech roles as well. For instance, tech teams working directly on trading platforms (like yours) can be considered more 'front office' tech, especially if they work closely with traders. This proximity to the core business can enhance your visibility and importance within the firm.
Sought-After Tech Teams: Teams that work on critical systems such as trading platforms, risk management systems, and client-facing applications are usually highly valued. These roles tend to have more interaction with the revenue-generating parts of the bank and can offer more strategic experience.
Moving from Tech to S&T: Leveraging your engineering background and trading knowledge can be a strategic move. Focus on building strong relationships with the trading teams and understanding their challenges and requirements. Demonstrating your ability to apply your tech skills to solve real trading problems can make a compelling case for your transition into S&T. Additionally, consider seeking mentorship from someone within the S&T division or participating in any cross-departmental projects to increase your exposure.
General Advice: Continue enhancing your understanding of trading strategies, financial instruments, and market dynamics. This combined with your tech expertise can make you a unique and valuable asset to the S&T team.
In summary, the technology and product your team works on do matter, especially if they align closely with the core business activities of the bank. Your role in developing the in-house trading system could serve as a strong foundation for a future move into S&T roles.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/move-to-tech-in-search-of-better-wlb?customgpt=1, Sales in S&T - What's the catch? (best job in banking)??, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/who-has-heard-about-these-teams-citi-tts-deutsche-gts-jpm-tss-baml-gts?customgpt=1, Q&A: I hate my Banking job. Most likely transferring to Back office., 2nd year S&T to IBD Associate -- ask me about S&T
no...do not work in tech at a bank if u can get a swe job at faang or equivalent
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