Stockbroker
Job Description:Stockbrokers manage their clients' investments by trading stocks, shares and other financial products to get the best return.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this role you could
- research financial markets and the latest trading figures
- work closely with investment analysts
- generate new business and develop close relationships with clients
- manage and review client portfolios
- give advice on risks
- instruct stock market traders, to achieve the best market prices
- meet profit, new business and retention targets
- keep up to date with tax and financial legislation
Skills:
You’ll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of economics and accounting
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- excellent verbal communication skills
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- customer service skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- persistence and determination (drive)
Entry Requirements:
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
University
You could start by doing a degree in a relevant subject like:
- management
- business
- economics
- finance
- maths
A course with a placement year or a summer internship will give you valuable experience and an advantage when applying for work.
Apprenticeship
You may be able to get into this job through an investment specialist higher apprenticeship or financial services professional degree apprenticeship.
You will take professional exams as part of these apprenticeships and at the end you will be able to apply for membership of the relevant professional body.
Direct Application
You could move into stockbroking if you have a experience in accountancy, banking or insurance and take further training on the job.
Other Routes
You can apply for a place on a company’s graduate training scheme if you have a degree. You’ll usually need at least an upper second-class degree to apply. Useful subjects include:
- business management
- economics
- finance
- maths
There’s a lot of competition for places, so it’ll help if you have some relevant work experience.
Many graduates also have a postgraduate qualification like a master’s in business administration.
Registration
In the UK, you’ll need to register as an ‘approved person’ by the Financial Conduct Authority. There may be a similar authority in the country where you wish to work.
You may find it useful to gain professional qualifications from organisations like CFA Institute and Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Skills in a second language can also help you to find a job.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work in an office or from home.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience and a good track record you could progress to become a trader, relationship manager or fund manager.
You could also become a partner or set up your own business.