What did you study at University?
I did a dual degree in Actuarial Studies (Honours) and Statistics at the University of New South Wales, and went on to complete an honours degree in Actuarial Studies. I’ve always enjoyed mathematics from an early age, so a quantitative degree seemed to be a natural choice.

What sparked your interest in trading?
I was first introduced to trading when I attended a career fair during my third year of university, and I soon realised that it perfectly fits my interests and skills. The intellectual challenge it brings, the variety of work, the speedy feedback loop, and the opportunity to work with some of the most intelligent and motivated people are amongst some of the elements of trading that appeal to me.

How was the training in the graduate program structured?
The grad program included ten weeks of structured training. Each day consisted of 1-3 lessons on the theory of pricing different financial products and the practical aspects of trading them. As the program progressed, there was a shift in focus from classroom learning to practical application, with more time dedicated to shadowing experienced traders and engaging in projects.

What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy the perfect balance of trading and research in my role. During market hours, I monitor our strategy and tweak the parameters to optimise trading; off market hours, I spend time working on research projects that help us trade better. This iterative process is both rewarding and mentally stimulating. On top of that, VivCourt’s unique culture also makes it an awesome place to work. Everyone is always willing to share their knowledge and lend a helping hand. The level of collaboration we have here is unparalleled.

How has your role expanded at VivCourt in the past year?
I’ve taken on more leadership in research projects and become more involved in bringing research into the markets. I’ve learned that taking market feedback is the shortcut to the most successful trading strategies. My day-to-day trading has also expanded into new products and markets to our desk, which has been super exciting.

Any tips for candidates going through the application process?
Being genuine is the best interview advice I’ve ever received. Expressing your passion for the role and the company will always make a positive impact. For technical interviews, remember that the interviewers are most interested in how you approach a problem rather than whether you get the right answer. Interviews are two-way conversations, so approach them with curiosity.