Trader, APAC

Northern Trust; Sydney; On-site; AUD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Trust Securities is recruiting a keen, intellectually curious trader for our APAC Trading team in Sydney. The role offers exposure to equity and fixed income from Asia Pacific markets, working with global institutional clients and cross-functional partners.

You will learn trading mechanics, market structure, and regulatory frameworks while collaborating with colleagues across Sales Trading, Operations and Tech in a fast-paced, data-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Interest in financial markets and trading careers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration across teams.

Responsibilities

• Receive, validate and execute equity and fixed income orders across APAC markets for global institutional clients.
• Access liquidity via algorithms, DMA, dark pools and broker desks.
• Apply best execution principles while managing execution risk and costs.
• Use trading analytics and TCA tools to improve performance.
• Develop knowledge of APAC market structure, mechanics and regulations.
• Collaborate with Trading, Sales Trading, Operations and Technology teams globally.
• Prepare market commentary, market wraps and client communications.
• Suggest improvements to workflows, risk controls and tech solutions.
• Maintain strong focus on risk management and operational excellence.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Organisational skills

Multitasking

Adaptability

Tech-oriented

Team collaboration

Education

Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline

Tools

Python

EMS/Algorithmic trading tools

Job description

About Northern Trust

As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking services, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world’s most successful individuals, families, corporations and institutions.

Since 1889, we have aligned our efforts with our three guiding Principles That Endure: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. Together, they reflect the three cornerstones of business conduct which we strive to instill in our employees, whom we call partners, and to provide to our clients and the communities we serve worldwide.

With more than 135 years of financial experience and over 24,000 partners, we serve the world’s most sophisticated clients using leading technology and exceptional service.

Build your career in institutional trading with exposure to global clients, APAC markets, regional brokers, and advanced trading technology.

The Opportunity

Northern Trust Securities is seeking a motivated and intellectually curious individual to join our APAC Trading team in Sydney.

Our traders play a critical role in executing equity and fixed income transactions across Asia Pacific markets on behalf of leading institutional investors worldwide. This role offers exceptional exposure to global financial markets, institutional clients, regional broker networks, and internal partners across Sales Trading, Transition Management, Operations and Technology.

Whether you are a recent graduate looking to build a career in financial markets or an early-career professional looking to accelerate your development, this role provides a unique opportunity to learn from experienced traders in a highly collaborative and technology-driven environment.

What You Will Do

• Receive, validate and execute equity and fixed income orders across Asia Pacific markets on behalf of global institutional clients.
• Access liquidity through a broad range of execution channels, including algorithms, direct market access (DMA), dark pools and broker trading desks.
• Apply best execution principles and trading strategies to deliver strong client outcomes while managing execution risk and implementation costs.
• Use trading analytics and transaction cost analysis (TCA) tools to evaluate execution performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Develop expertise in market structure, trading mechanics and regulatory frameworks across the APAC Markets.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Trading, Sales Trading, Operations and Technology teams globally.
• Support the production of market commentary, market wraps and client communications.
• Contribute ideas that enhance trading workflows, operational processes, risk controls and technology solutions.
• Maintain a strong focus on risk management, operational excellence and attention to detail.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is eager to learn, enjoys solving problems and is excited about building a career in financial markets.

• A genuine interest in financial markets and a desire to build a career in trading and investment management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret information and identify practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Adaptability, resilience and a willingness to continually learn.
• An interest in using technology, data analytics, automation and AI to improve trading outcomes and operational efficiency.
• A degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline and/or relevant professional experience.

Skills and Experience That Would Be an Advantage

The following are not required but would be viewed favourably:

• Exposure to financial markets, trading, investment operations or related environments.
• Experience using programming, automation or data analysis tools, including Python.
• Familiarity with electronic trading platforms, execution management systems (EMS) or algorithmic trading tools.
• Knowledge of Asia Pacific market structure, trading practices or settlement processes.
• Experience working in a client-focused or service-oriented environment.

Working Environment

Our trading team operates across a broad range of Asia Pacific markets and time zones. Coverage is primarily managed through rostered shifts, although team members may occasionally provide additional support during periods of leave, public holidays or unexpected absences. We value flexibility, teamwork and a willingness to support the broader trading desk when required.

Working with Us

As a Northern Trust partner, you will be part of a flexible and collaborative work culture, which has a strong history of financial strength and stability. Movement within the organization is encouraged, senior leaders are accessible, and you can take pride in working for a company committed to an inclusive workplace and assisting the communities we serve.

Philanthropy is deeply rooted in Northern Trust’s history and is an essential element of our culture. Employees around the world give their time and talent to work for the greater good of their communities.

Reasonable Accommodation

Northern Trust is committed to working with and providing adjustments to individuals with health conditions and disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email our HR Service Center at [e-mail], or alternatively you can discuss your individual requirements with the recruiter you are working with.

About Our Sydney Office

The brand new Northern Trust Sydney office was officially opened in early 2025. This expansion reflects our continued commitment to serving our clients, strengthening our presence in Australia, and fostering collaboration in a dynamic and growing market. Learn more.