At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the onboarding process for Disclosed Counterparties and Brokers in a dynamic trading environment.
- Company: Join Optiver, a leading market-making institution focused on improving global markets.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 vacation days, private medical insurance, and performance-based bonuses.
- Other info: Opportunities for international transfers and continuous learning at tech events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in financial markets while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in FICC OTC and Listed Options, KYC processes, and project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Optiver is hiring a dedicated Counterparty Onboarding & Lifecycle Management Specialist to own the end-to-end onboarding process for Disclosed Counterparties (DCPs) and Brokers across the FICC business. The role sits at the intersection of commercial growth and operational control, acting as the primary point of accountability for all counterparty lifecycle events from initial engagement through to active trading readiness.
What you’ll do
- DCP and Broker Onboarding
- Own the full onboarding lifecycle for new Disclosed Counterparties (buyside, bank and market maker) and Brokers across FICC business for both Listed and OTC Options.
- Project-manage each onboarding from initial submission through to live trading readiness, coordinating across Sales, Trading, Compliance, Legal and Operations.
- Maintain a pipeline view of all active onboardings; track blockers and escalate where commercial urgency requires acceleration.
- Proactively streamline sub-optimal processes where they exist.
- Use of technology and AI tools to achieve the above goals.
- KYC / AML
- Complete Reverse KYC processes for counterparties performing KYC on Optiver entities, preparing and managing the necessary documentation packages.
- Execute periodic KYC refresh reviews in line with Compliance-mandated schedules and risk ratings.
- Partner with Compliance on AML controls and KYC process governance; serve as the operational owner of KYC records and documentation.
- Account Maintenance & Lifecycle Management
- Manage ongoing account maintenance events: new fund additions, entity restructures, legal name changes, beneficial ownership updates.
- Maintain accurate and auditable counterparty records across internal systems and documentation repositories.
- Monitor counterparty data quality and proactively flag material changes that require KYC reassessment.
- Legal Documentation — OTC Agreements
- Along with Sales leads, help drive forward OTC legal documentation for OTC FX and Metals Options, including FXPB (FX Prime Brokerage) agreements, ISDA Master Agreements and carve-outs, Compensation Agreements.
- Co-ordinate with Sales and Legal on non-standard negotiation points; own the administrative workflow and execution tracking.
- Post-Onboard Pre-Trade Setup (TBD)
- Manage counterparty setup in internal trading and operations systems.
- Suggest workflow improvements where it strengthens our operating framework.
- Ensure all pre-trade configuration for new brokers and FX DCPs is completed and tested prior to go-live.
Who you are
- Hands-on experience with FICC OTC and Listed Options + KYC processes — including ISDA/FXPB documentation workflows.
- Strong understanding of AML/KYC frameworks applicable to derivatives counterparties (buyside, banks, market makers).
- Experience managing onboarding pipelines across multiple entity types and jurisdictions.
- Ability to project-manage complex, multi-stakeholder onboardings with competing timelines.
- Attention to detail in documentation management and record-keeping.
- Familiarity with Reverse KYC processes (responding to counterparty KYC requests on Optiver).
- Background in an onboarding role at a bank, market maker, or buyside firm.
- Exposure to FX Prime Brokerage or OTC metals documentation.
- Experience with counterparty setup in trading or operations systems.
- An understanding of cross-border framework.
- Familiarity of AI, particularly Claude.
Who we are
At Optiver, our mission is to constantly improve the market by injecting liquidity, providing accurate pricing, increasing transparency and acting as a stabilising force no matter the market conditions. With a focus on continuous improvement, we participate in the safeguarding of healthy and efficient markets for everyone who participates. As one of the largest market-making institutions, we are a trusted partner of 70+ exchanges across the globe.
What you’ll get
- A performance-based bonus structure, enabling all of our employees to benefit from our global profit pool.
- 27 paid vacation days plus all UK public holidays.
- Daily breakfast and lunch, along with support on commuting expenses.
- Private medical insurance, pension scheme, and ClassPass fitness membership.
- Training and continuous learning opportunities, including access to conferences and tech events.
- International transfer opportunities for global career growth.
Strategic Counterparty Onboarding & Lifecycle Lead employer: Optiver
Optiver is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a dynamic work culture where innovation thrives. With generous benefits such as 27 paid vacation days, private medical insurance, and a performance-based bonus structure, employees are empowered to excel in their roles while enjoying a healthy work-life balance. Located in the heart of the UK, Optiver provides unique opportunities for international career advancement and continuous learning, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Counterparty Onboarding & Lifecycle Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Optiver's mission, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to onboarding and KYC processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your relevant experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Counterparty Onboarding & Lifecycle Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Strategic Counterparty Onboarding & Lifecycle Lead. Highlight your hands-on experience with FICC OTC and Listed Options, as well as any KYC processes you've managed. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your skills can contribute to our mission at Optiver. Don't forget to mention any relevant project management experience you have in onboarding processes.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:In this role, attention to detail is key. When filling out your application, make sure everything is accurate and well-organised. We appreciate candidates who take the time to ensure their documentation is spot on, just like we do in our operations!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optiver
✨Know Your Onboarding Process
Make sure you understand the end-to-end onboarding process for Disclosed Counterparties and Brokers. Familiarise yourself with the key stages, from initial engagement to live trading readiness, so you can confidently discuss how you would manage these steps during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience in managing complex onboarding projects. Highlight specific examples where you've coordinated across multiple teams like Sales, Trading, and Compliance, and how you tackled any challenges that arose.
✨Demonstrate KYC/AML Knowledge
Brush up on your knowledge of KYC and AML processes, especially as they relate to derivatives counterparties. Be ready to discuss how you've handled KYC documentation and compliance in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the position.
✨Emphasise Your Attention to Detail
Since this role involves a lot of documentation management and record-keeping, make sure to highlight your attention to detail. Share examples of how you've maintained accurate records and managed documentation in past positions to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
