Hey, big vendor
In the rush to find a job in financial services technology, don't overlook the opportunities offered by vendors of financial technology.
"Working for a vendor means you will work on a wider range of projects, for a wider range of clients than you could working in a single department of a single bank," says Cathy Bryndza, director of corporate recruitment with financial software supplier Algorithmics. "We also offer extremely competitive benefits and salaries."
If you're keen to work for a supplier, the greatest wealth of opportunities can currently be found in consulting firms, which are benefiting from the boom in outsourcing and managed services, says Sara Gemmell, a director with executive search firm Warren Partners. For these jobs, candidates need experience in project management and programme management rather than deep technical expertise, says Gemmell.
Among software developers, demand is stronger for technical skills, particularly Microsoft .Net and Java server programming, notes Ross Hamilton, director of client engagement with Lab 49, a city-based firm that creates bespoke software packages for investment banks.
"For a technologist, working in a vendor environment is a great alternative to a bank," Hamilton adds. "We're very R&D focused, so people are going to be working with cutting-edge technologies, coming up with new ideas and being exposed to the latest trends."
Gemmell and Bryndza both actively seek candidates with supply-side experience when recruiting new staff. "They stand out from the crowd, because vendors are much more results-oriented," says Gemmell. "Working at a vendor means you know how to do what needs to be done, and you treat a deadline as non-negotiable."
