Buy Side Credit Analyst​/Junior Trader - Graduate

Sterling Williams are working closely alongside a leading International Bank based in the City of London, who are looking to hire a Buy-Side Credit Analyst/Junior Bond Trader to their London business. This would suit a candidate who is a recent graduate (25/26) from a top-40 University who is looking to join a bank in their front office; and will over time become a certified individual who will trade Bonds on their behalf.

Candidates will have at least a 2.1, or a 1st class degree, or a Masters in a relevant subject. Buy-side Credit Analyst (Graduate) / Junior Trader Permanent, full time. City of London (with Hybrid working 3 days in the office) Salary competitive, circa £40-50,000 pa plus benefits. To support the team through credit research and analysis of corporate issuers and relevant fixed-income and credit products, monitoring credit and market developments and providing analysis, investment views and recommendations to senior members of the team and Head Office.

The role supports the management and monitoring of the corporate bond portfolio within the investment strategy, parameters and delegated authorities determined by management and Head Office. The job holder is expected to develop their analytical capability and issuer coverage through on-the-job experience, taking on greater complexity and responsibility as their knowledge and experience develops. Both investment analysis skills and buy-side trading execution skills are expected to be developed through on-the-job experience.

Credit analysis:
In conjunction with the wider team, undertake credit analysis of European and US corporates for investment in corporate bonds, REIT, and, to a lesser extent, credit default swaps (CDS), to support investment recommendations and ongoing portfolio monitoring. Produce regular and timely research reports (‘Company Profile’ and ‘Cash Flow Analysis Report’), providing analysis and recommendations for line management and Head Office.

Monitor assigned issuers and portfolio holdings, including relevant financial, credit, market and sector developments, and identify any material changes in credit quality or investment risk. Escalate material credit concerns or emerging risks to the Manager in a timely manner, supported by appropriate analysis and recommendations. Upon request undertake ad hoc credit analysis and reporting for line management and Head Office.

Trading activities (certified - in time):
Under supervision and direction of management, support and execute approved investment activity in fixed income bonds (including floating rate notes), REIT and credit derivative products, including single name long/short CDS, index long/short CDS and interest rate swaps, within applicable delegated authorities and limits. Undertake “price discovery” and market analysis, including engagement with brokers and traders, to assess prevailing market values and support investment analysis and execution.

Build and maintain strong relationships with dealer counter parties and market participants. The successful candidate will likely have: A strong academic record, with a first-class or 2:1 degree from a leading university. CFA qualification/studying towards CFA is desirable but not essential, as CFA study support will be provided. IMC or other relevant investment qualification is desirable but not essential.

Required Skills:

Relevant experience in credit analysis, corporate banking, fixed income, investment management, asset management, treasury or financial markets, with practical experience of analysing financial and economic information and producing quality credit analysis and reporting. Good understanding of financial statements, corporate credit analysis, credit markets and fixed-income products.…