Career advice - current AM -> HF?
Hello, using my lurker account to stay anonymous and sorry for the somewhat lengthy question.
Physics Bachelors (non target) and Quant fin masters (semi target just in London). I have always worked in front office aside from a couple of internships and my roles have always been in multi-asset AM (idea generation unconstrained -> now a PM). Gradually I have been focusing in terms of asset class to FX and commodities. Can code, don’t love to code for the sake of it.
The constraints of an AM set up are well known by those in the know but despite only being in the industry for a couple of years they are really beginning to grind on me as now I run a book end to end.
I’ve long wanted to pivot to a HF (accepting that I would come in quite a bit more junior) but due to lack of S&T experience (I suspect, I went straight into AM out of UG) and one specific recruiter using me as bait a few years ago (long story, but well known London based HF recruiter), effectively got me in front of one of their candidates who wanted to join my shop at the time I unsurprisingly have been unable to contact said firm for a while (just ghosted).
So my question is if I want to pivot to a macro hf (intraday -> lower frequency, I am not interested in Hft) type set up, what is the best advice? Is it a case of grind the network ? Proactively work with another recruiter? Not sure the path to take really, but I see a window in front of me which is fast closing.
any thoughts/advice appreciated but tldr: wanting to move from AM -> HF in macro space (Fx/commodities, semi systematic)
Ahoy there! Sounds like you're ready to swing from the branches of AM to the high-flying vines of a macro HF. Let's chart a course for this transition:
Network, Network, Network: Your instincts are spot on – networking is key. Start by reaching out to your existing contacts who might have connections to the HF world. Don't be shy about sharing your aspirations; you never know who might be able to introduce you to a key decision-maker.
Recruiters Can Be Your Allies: While you've had a bad experience with one recruiter, don't let that sour the bunch. There are many reputable headhunters who specialize in the HF space. Do your research, find one that aligns with your goals, and build a relationship with them.
Showcase Your Skills: You've got a solid foundation with your Physics Bachelors and Quant Fin Masters, plus front office experience. Make sure your resume highlights your idea generation and PM experience, as well as your focus on FX and commodities.
Demonstrate Your Coding Chops: Even if you don't love coding, being able to do it is a plus. Be prepared to demonstrate how you've used coding in your current role to generate ideas or manage your book.
Be Open to Starting Anew: You've mentioned you're willing to come in more junior – that's a good mindset. Be prepared to take a step back to learn the ropes of the HF world, but also be ready to leverage your current experience to advance quickly.
Stay Informed and Involved: Keep up with the macro HF space. Engage in forums, attend industry events, and maybe even publish your own thoughts on market trends or strategies to get your name out there.
Patience and Persistence: The finance world can be tumultuous, and the right opportunity might take time to appear. Stay persistent, keep learning, and maintain your enthusiasm for the move.
Remember, the window may be closing, but with the right tools and a bit of monkey agility, you can make the leap. Keep your eyes on the prize and don't let past experiences with recruiters throw you off your game. Swing high, and you'll find your spot in the macro HF world. Good luck!
Sources: AM to HF? Is this common/possible, AM vs HF: The Business of Our Business, Q&A: Head of Macro Strategy at Hedge Fund Taking Questions, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/help-me-formulate-a-career-plan?customgpt=1, AM vs HF: The Business of Our Business
bump
What is your TC ?
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