At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of analysts in producing top-notch credit research and actionable investment ideas.
- Company: Join Octus, a global leader in credit intelligence and analytics.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive health benefits, hybrid work options, and generous parental leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse, inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of credit research while mentoring the next generation of analysts.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in credit analysis and 3+ years in team leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Octus is a leading global provider of credit intelligence, data, and analytics. Since 2013, tens of thousands of professionals across hedge fund, investment banking, management consulting, and law firm verticals have come to rely on Octus to make better, faster, and more confident decisions in pace with the fast-moving credit markets.
Working at Octus, we hire growth-minded innovators and trailblazers across the globe to drive our business and culture. Our core values – Action Oriented, Customer First Mindset, Effective Team Players, and Driven to Excel – define an organizational ethos that’s as high-performing as it is human. Among other perks, Octus employees enjoy competitive health benefits, matched 401k and pension plans, PTO, generous parental leave, gym subsidies, educational reimbursements for career development, recognition programs, pet-friendly offices (US only), and much more.
We are seeking an experienced credit analyst as Head of Credit Research to lead our European leveraged finance research, focusing on high yield performing and distressed credit coverage. This senior leader will be responsible for a third of Octus’ trifecta, meaning the leader will work closely with senior lawyers and reporters with cross border experience and expertise, to create our best-in-class research and analysis. The head of credit research will manage a team of nine analysts, shaping research coverage, establishing best practices and KPIs, and driving collaboration across the Editorial department and with commercial and marketing teams.
The Head of Credit Research will be a driving force in originating actionable investment ideas for our clients so they can stay ahead of the curve. The successful candidate will oversee the publication of timely and insightful credit research reports in touch with market trends. The role requires expertise in fundamental credit analysis, relative value, valuation, and restructuring as well as a proven ability to innovate and deliver value to our subscribers. You will play a key role in developing and mentoring junior talent, ensuring high analytical standards, and improving time to market for research outputs. This is a highly visible, client-facing role, offering exposure to top institutional asset managers, hedge funds, investment banks, trading desks, and financial and legal advisors.
The ideal candidate will be expected to have a combination of the following:
- Track record of successful investment ideas
- Deal making (from pitch to execution)
- An existing network in the credit market
- Ability to convey a clear pitch in writing
- Experience in team leadership (hiring, training, managing skills, managing career development)
What we offer:
- Senior leadership role in a fast-growing, collaborative research environment
- Opportunity to shape best-in-class credit research and coverage
- Generous benefits package
- Hybrid remote work flexibility
- Progression opportunities
Responsibilities:
- Drive collaboration with other Editorial managers, legal analysts, and reporters to deliver cross-disciplinary research and analysis
- Lead and develop a team of analysts covering European high yield and distressed credits, including training, mentoring, and performance management
- Shape research coverage strategy for performing and distressed credits, including leading restructuring and recovery analysis supported by valuation models
- Originate and oversee the publication of credit research reports with actionable investment ideas, ensuring timeliness and quality
- Establish and monitor best practices and KPIs for research output and team performance
- Work closely with commercial and marketing teams to maximize the impact of research content and foster relationships with subscribers
- Maintain active dialogue with industry contacts and clients, representing the team at industry events and meetings
- Monitor industry trends and drive thought leadership within the team and wider research group
- Continuously seek and implement new ideas to enhance value for subscribers and improve time to market
Requirements:
- Minimum 5+ years of credit analysis experience, with significant time in a client-facing or decision-making role
- Minimum 3+ years of managerial experience, including direct team leadership, mentoring, and performance management
- Demonstrated experience leading coverage of credits and sectors, including primary market/new issues, covenants, distressed debt opportunities, recovery estimates, and restructuring proceedings
- Advanced skills in financial modeling, cash flow projections, and valuation
- Excellent technical, analytical, written, and oral communication skills
- Strong collaborative approach and ability to work cross-functionally with legal, editorial, commercial, and marketing teams
- Track record of innovation and delivering value to institutional clients
Equal Employment Opportunity: Octus is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive and diverse work environment where all individuals are valued, respected, and treated fairly. We believe that diversity enriches our workplace and enhances our ability to innovate and succeed.
Head of EMEA Credit Research in London employer: Octus
At Octus, we pride ourselves on being a dynamic and innovative employer that fosters a collaborative work culture, particularly for our Head of EMEA Credit Research role. With a generous benefits package, hybrid work flexibility, and ample opportunities for professional growth and mentorship, we empower our employees to excel in their careers while contributing to cutting-edge credit research that drives impactful investment decisions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of EMEA Credit Research in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Octus. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of EMEA Credit Research in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Octus.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Octus's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Octus
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Octus.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Octus will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Octus employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
