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The financial services industry has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, with technology redefining operations and middle-office functions. Traditional accounting or administrative skills are no longer sufficient. Today, candidates are required to be proficient in coding, data analysis and automation tools to improve efficiency and mitigate operational risk.
This evolution is particularly evident in asset management, hedge funds and private equity, where firms are leveraging technology to streamline trade processing, reporting and risk management. As automation reduces manual data input, professionals must now focus on higher-value tasks - making technical proficiency a necessity rather than an advantage.
Vijay Sanghvi, Head of Operations Recruitment at One Ten Associates, explained that technical skills that were once considered "nice to have" are now essential across all levels of operations roles. "Five years ago, firms would have viewed VBA, Python, or SQL as useful additions to a candidate's CV. Now they’re fundamental," he explains.
Python and SQL are particularly sought after for their role in data manipulation, automation and process optimisation. Many firms integrate Python into their operational workflows to enhance reporting, automate tasks and manage large datasets. Meanwhile, SQL remains a staple for querying and managing databases, crucial for reconciliation and risk reporting.
Power BI is increasingly valued as firms require professionals who can interpret and visualise data efficiently. As reporting becomes more sophisticated, the ability to build dynamic dashboards and extract insights from large datasets is a critical asset.
VBA continues to be a mainstay in Excel-driven environments, particularly in smaller firms reliant on legacy systems. Many buy-side firms still use Excel-based models, making VBA a vital tool for automation and custom reporting.
With technology reshaping operations, hiring strategies are evolving. Many firms now prioritise technical skills, even for mid-level and senior positions. "We’ve seen a clear shift in what clients are looking for. Hiring managers want candidates who can bridge the gap between operations and technology, ensuring efficiency and scalability," Vijay notes.
For candidates, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. Those lacking technical skills risk being left behind, while those upskilling in Python, SQL or Power BI can significantly improve career prospects. "Technical proficiency is no longer optional," advises Vijay.
Many professionals are proactively investing in further education, enrolling in online courses and certifications to remain competitive. Upskilling not only enhances job security but also opens doors to more strategic and higher-paying roles.
Additionally, the rise of technology-driven operations roles has led to increased salary expectations. Candidates with proficiencies in automation, data analysis and reporting tools are commanding higher compensation packages, as firms compete for talent in a tight market.
The demand for operations professionals with technical expertise is only set to grow. As firms continue to integrate automation and data analytics into their middle-office functions, the ability to code, manipulate databases and build dashboards is becoming indispensable. For candidates, embracing this shift through upskilling is crucial for long-term success.
The team at One Ten Associates is committed to bridging this skills gap, advising both clients and candidates on market trends, salary expectations and hiring strategies. As the industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of these changes will be key to securing top-tier talent and maintaining a competitive edge.
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