Head of Quantitative Analytics

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Pension fund

Life insurance

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head of Quantitative Analytics in Johannesburg to lead a high-performing team, develop and validate pricing and risk models, and design algorithmic trading strategies across asset classes. The role shapes the firm's quantitative direction in a dynamic financial environment.

You will oversee data infrastructure, collaborate across business units, stay abreast of market trends, and drive innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, CS or Financial Engineering.
• 10+ years in quantitative finance with model development experience.
• Proven leadership of quantitative analytics teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of quantitative analysts, fostering high performance.
• Develop and validate sophisticated quantitative models for pricing, risk, and portfolio optimization.
• Design and implement algorithmic trading strategies across asset classes.
• Oversee data analytics infrastructure and ensure data integrity and quality.
• Collaborate with business units to apply quantitative methods to complex problems.
• Stay updated on market trends, regulation, and tech in quantitative finance.
• Explain complex concepts clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and internal policies.
• Drive innovation in quantitative methods and tools.

Skills

Python

C++

R

Java

Machine Learning

Time Series

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

C++

Java

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial institution based in the bustling heart of Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA, is looking for an accomplished and strategic Head of Quantitative Analytics. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing the quantitative research and development functions, driving innovation in financial modeling, risk management, and algorithmic trading strategies. You will lead a high-performing team of quantitative analysts, ensuring the development and implementation of cutting-edge analytical tools and models that provide a competitive edge. The position involves a hybrid work model, allowing for a balanced approach to on-site collaboration and remote work flexibility. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of quantitative finance within a dynamic and growth-oriented organization. You will play a pivotal role in guiding the firm's analytical direction and fostering a culture of rigorous quantitative inquiry.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of quantitative analysts, fostering their professional development and ensuring high performance.
• Develop and validate sophisticated quantitative models for pricing, risk management, and portfolio optimization.
• Design and implement algorithmic trading strategies across various asset classes.
• Oversee the data analytics infrastructure and ensure the integrity and quality of financial data.
• Collaborate with business units to identify opportunities for applying quantitative methods to solve complex financial problems.
• Stay abreast of market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies in quantitative finance.
• Communicate complex quantitative concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and internal policies.
• Drive innovation in quantitative methodologies and tools.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Financial Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in quantitative finance, with a proven track record in model development and implementation.
• Significant experience in leading and managing teams of quantitative analysts.
• Deep understanding of financial markets, derivatives, and risk management principles.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in quantitative finance (e.g., Python, C++, R, Java).
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and time series analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience with high-frequency trading systems or algorithmic strategies is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a performance-driven bonus structure, reflecting the strategic importance of this role. Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical aid, a generous pension fund, life insurance, and substantial annual leave. Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including attending leading industry conferences, are readily available. The hybrid work arrangement promotes a healthy work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to work with a talented team in a stimulating environment, contributing significantly to the firm's success and growth in the financial sector.