Derivative Valuations Assistant Manager

The Actuarial & Risk Modelling team provides derivative valuation services to non-audit clients and in support of the firm's audit teams. This individual will have the unique opportunity to support the growth of the team's valuation services and contribute to its ongoing success.

Our diverse range of clients means we're asked to value an equally diverse range of products, from the vanilla (think swaps, caps and floors) to the exotic (think embedded conversion options, FX structured products and bespoke energy derivatives). How we do this depends on what we're valuing but our people are skilled in building their own bespoke valuation models to go alongside the usual derivative pricing tools you'd expect.

We're happy to talk flexible working and consider reduced hours and job shares, we'll support you to balance your work and life.

A look into the role

• Ensure the accurate and timely valuation of complex financial instruments, including derivatives such as options, swaps, and structured products.


• Review and validate valuation models, methodologies, and assumptions used in the valuation process to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable standards.


• Prepare and review valuation reports, documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, including clients and audit teams.


• Manage and prioritize multiple valuation projects, ensuring adherence to deadlines, quality standards, and client expectations.


• Prepares fee estimates and budgets for client assignments and can make and justify any required changes to these as the assignment progresses


• Ensures own time is utilised effectively, as well as team member time on their assignments, and identifies opportunities to work more efficiently


• Develop and maintain valuation policies and procedures in accordance with industry standards, accounting standards and best practices.


• Stay abreast of regulatory changes and market developments related to derivative valuation and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines.


• Identify and implement technological solutions, automation, and process enhancements to streamline the valuation process and improve efficiency.


• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including audit, risk management and accounting teams, to address valuation-related issues and provide support for decision-making.


• Acts with integrity and in line with our organisational values


• Plays an active role in the Actuarial and Risk Modelling team, managing, mentoring, coaching and advising team members as appropriate and contributing to positive morale as well as supporting recruitment and inclusive behaviour


• Monitor and assess the performance and productivity of the valuation team, providing feedback, coaching, and professional development opportunities for team members.


• Provide guidance and training to team members on valuation techniques, market data analysis, and best practices in derivative valuation.


• Participate in client interactions, including presenting valuation results, addressing client inquiries, and contributing to the development of client relationships.


• Support senior management in strategic initiatives, business development efforts, and process improvement projects related to derivative valuation.


• Act as a subject matter expert in derivative valuation, representing the firm in industry forums, conferences, and client meetings.


• Has a strong awareness and adherence to the firm's risk management processes and procedures, professional standards and ethics


• Demonstrates an awareness of the full range of the firm's products, services and capabilities and contributes to cross selling


• Meets all relevant CPD requirements and completes returns on time
  
  Joining us as a Valuations Assistant Manager, the minimum criteria you'll need is practical experience in valuing derivatives and/or complex financial instruments. It would be great if you had some of the following skills, but don't worry if you don't tick every box, we'll help you develop along the way.


• Advanced understanding of derivative valuation models, pricing methodologies, and market data analysis.


• Proficiency in using financial software and valuation tools, such as Bloomberg, or ICE Portfolio Analytics or similar.


• Experience of using Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word


• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including expertise in statistical analysis and financial modeling.


• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, including experience in leading and mentoring a team of valuation professionals.


• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to interact with internal stakeholders and clients.


• Advanced knowledge of financial markets, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices related to derivative valuation.


• Problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to make sound decisions in complex valuation scenarios.


• A bachelor's degree in finance, economics, mathematics, or a related field. A master's degree in finance, financial engineering, or a related quantitative discipline is often preferred.


• Progress towards a relevant professional certification such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), FRM (Financial Risk Manager), or similar credentials related to financial analysis and risk management may be advantageous. Should we wish to continue or commence studying towards such a qualification, we'd be happy to discuss how we can support this.
  
  Grant Thornton UK LLP is part of a global network of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, made up of some 73,000 people in over 150 countries. We're a team of independent thinkers who put quality, inclusion and integrity first. All around the world we bring a different experience to our clients. A better experience. One that delivers the expertise they need in a way that goes beyond. Personal, proactive, and agile. That's Grant Thornton., Embracing uniqueness, the culture at Grant Thornton thrives on the contributions of all our people, we never settle for what is easy, we look beyond to deliver the right thing, for everyone. Building an inclusive culture, where we value difference and respect our colleagues helps our people to perform at the best of their ability and realise their potential.


Our open and accessible culture means you'll interact with leaders who are interested in you and everything you bring to our firm. The things that set you apart, we value them. That's why we give you the freedom to bring your whole self to work and pursue your passions inside and outside of work.

Beyond the job

Life is more than work. The things you do, and the people you're with outside of work matter, that's why we're happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles, and we'll always do our best to keep your work and life in balance.

The impact you can make here will go far beyond your day job. From secondments, to fundraising for local charities, or investing in entrepreneurs in the developing world, you'll be giving back to society. It's that drive to do the right thing that runs through our every move, grounded in our firm's values - purposefully driven, actively curious and candid but kind.

We're looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas and go beyond expectations. People who want to be able to proudly do what's right, for the firm, our clients, our people and themselves. It's how it should be.

The things you do, and the people you're with outside of work matter, that's why we're happy to look at flexible working options for all our roles, and we'll always do our best to keep your work and life in balance.

Whether that's working reduced contracted hours, working your hours over a shorter period or utilising our 'how we work' framework. Everyone has an immediate right to request a flexible arrangement through our flexible working policy.