Lead Quantitative Analyst (Quant)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Remote-first

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Quantitative Analyst for a remote-first role with the ability to operate from anywhere. The position involves designing and implementing sophisticated trading models, risk management systems, and high-frequency strategies in collaboration with quants and software engineers.

The role requires a Ph.D. or Master's in a quantitative field, 7+ years in quantitative analysis, and strong programming in Python/C++/Java.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or Financial Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in quantitative analysis or related field.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing complex quantitative models and trading strategies.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C++, or Java.
• Experience with statistical modeling, machine learning, and data analysis techniques.
• Deep understanding of financial markets, derivatives, and portfolio management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting and manage multiple projects.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and mentoring experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and implement quantitative trading strategies and models across asset classes.
• Research market microstructure, statistical arbitrage, and related paradigms.
• Develop and maintain high-frequency trading systems for speed and reliability.
• Collaborate with software engineers to translate research into production trading systems.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns and opportunities.
• Refine risk management models to mitigate portfolio risk.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to the quantitative strategy roadmap.
• Stay updated with academic and industry trends in quantitative finance.
• Perform backtesting and performance analysis with necessary adjustments.

Skills

Python programming

C++ programming

Java programming

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data analysis

Remote work management

Leadership

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in a quantitative field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge quantitative trading firm, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Lead Quantitative Analyst to join their fully remote team. This is a unique opportunity to leverage advanced mathematical and statistical techniques to design, develop, and implement sophisticated trading algorithms and risk management systems. The Lead Quant will be instrumental in driving the firm's technological edge and maximizing trading performance. Operating in a remote-first environment, this role demands a self-starter with exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, who can collaborate effectively with a distributed team. While the company operates globally, your administrative hub can be anywhere, and if you are near Sandton, Gauteng, it provides a convenient point for occasional team gatherings or if physical presence is ever deemed absolutely essential, though the role is designed to be performed entirely from home.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and implement quantitative trading strategies and models across various asset classes.
• Conduct in-depth research into market microstructure, statistical arbitrage, and other quantitative trading paradigms.
• Develop and maintain high-frequency trading systems, ensuring speed, reliability, and accuracy.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers to translate research ideas into production-ready trading systems.
• Analyze large datasets to identify patterns, correlations, and trading opportunities.
• Develop and refine risk management models to mitigate portfolio risk effectively.
• Mentor and guide junior quantitative analysts, fostering a culture of innovation and rigorous research.
• Stay abreast of the latest academic research and industry trends in quantitative finance.
• Contribute to the firm's overall quantitative strategy and technological roadmap.
• Perform backtesting and performance analysis of trading strategies, making necessary adjustments.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or Financial Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in quantitative analysis, algorithmic trading, or a related field within a top-tier financial institution or hedge fund.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing complex quantitative models and trading strategies.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, C++, or Java.
• Experience with statistical modeling, machine learning, and data analysis techniques.
• Deep understanding of financial markets, derivatives, and portfolio management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for effective teamwork in a distributed environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior team members.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and potential for profit sharing.
• This role provides the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects with a talented team of quants and engineers.
• The fully remote nature of the position offers unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• The company provides a generous budget for professional development, conferences, and learning resources.
• While the company operates globally and your location can be anywhere, having a base near Sandton, Gauteng offers access to potential networking opportunities if desired.
• Join a firm at the forefront of quantitative finance and drive innovation.