Mixed outlook for derivatives staff

After a disappointing 2001, the job market for derivatives specialists looks set to rebound this year in certain areas, while other areas remain stagnant or face even further declines. Gallagher Polyn identifies the hot spots and those areas to avoid in 2002

Financial industry recruiters in the US and the UK say that, overall, derivatives specialists are having an easier time finding work this year than they did in 2001. Last year, dealers were cutting staff firm-wide to bring costs in line with evaporating revenues from equities underwriting and mergers and acquisitions advisory business. “It is a much better employment market than last year, but it’s nothing close to 2000,” says Ken Randel, executive director at the Options Group, a