Senior Quantitative Analyst - Financial Modelling

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work in Midrand

Pension contributions

Performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Senior Quantitative Analyst in Midrand, Gauteng. You will develop, implement, and validate complex financial models used for risk management, pricing, and strategic decision-making in a banking and finance environment.

The role requires advanced degrees, 5+ years of experience, and proficiency in Python, C++, and R, with Monte Carlo, time series analysis, and machine learning.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Quantitative Finance, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related highly quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in quantitative finance, preferably within a banking or asset management environment.
• Proven expertise in financial modeling techniques, including Monte Carlo simulations, stochastic calculus, time series analysis, and machine learning.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python (with libraries like NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), C++, or R.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and deploy sophisticated quantitative models for financial derivatives pricing, risk assessment, and portfolio optimization.
• Perform rigorous back-testing and validation of existing models to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with traders, portfolio managers, and risk officers to understand their needs and translate them into effective modeling solutions.
• Conduct in-depth research into new financial instruments, market trends, and cutting-edge modeling methodologies.
• Prepare detailed documentation of models, methodologies, and results for internal review and external auditors.
• Automate reporting processes and enhance data quality for financial modeling inputs.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to the team's knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Present complex findings and model recommendations to senior management and stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

Skills

Monte Carlo

Time series analysis

Machine learning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's/PhD in quantitative field

Tools

Python (NumPy/SciPy/Pandas)

C++

R

SQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial institution, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Quantitative Analyst to join their dynamic team in **Midrand, Gauteng**. This role is pivotal in developing, implementing, and validating complex financial models used for risk management, pricing, and strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of financial markets, statistical modeling techniques, and programming languages. This position offers a challenging and rewarding environment where your analytical prowess will directly contribute to the firm's success and innovation within the Banking & Finance sector. You will collaborate with various departments, providing crucial insights and solutions to complex financial challenges. The opportunity to work in a Hybrid capacity allows for a balanced approach to professional and personal life, fostering productivity and well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and deploy sophisticated quantitative models for financial derivatives pricing, risk assessment, and portfolio optimization.
• Perform rigorous back-testing and validation of existing models to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with traders, portfolio managers, and risk officers to understand their needs and translate them into effective modeling solutions.
• Conduct in-depth research into new financial instruments, market trends, and cutting-edge modeling methodologies.
• Prepare detailed documentation of models, methodologies, and results for internal review and external auditors.
• Automate reporting processes and enhance data quality for financial modeling inputs.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to the team's knowledge sharing and skill development.
• Present complex findings and model recommendations to senior management and stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Quantitative Finance, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related highly quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in quantitative finance, preferably within a banking or asset management environment.
• Proven expertise in financial modeling techniques, including but not limited to, Monte Carlo simulations, stochastic calculus, time series analysis, and machine learning.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python (with libraries like NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), C++, or R.
• Strong understanding of financial markets, instruments (equities, fixed income, derivatives), and risk management principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Experience with database technologies (SQL) and data manipulation.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements (e.g., Basel III, IFRS 9) is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and public holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and further education.
• Access to state-of-the‑art technology and analytical tools.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment in Midrand, Gauteng.
• Hybrid work model balancing office presence and remote flexibility.
• Pension fund contributions and other retirement planning benefits.
• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.