Building financial software
Every financial services firm operates differently, especially within the buy-side sector. For mid-level professionals working with OMS (Order Management Systems) and EMS (Execution Management Systems), this variation creates both opportunity and complexity. Whether you’re designing software, implementing platforms, or driving operational use, success lies in finding a role that complements your unique expertise while aligning with a firm’s specific needs.
Understanding the diversity of buy-side firms
The buy-side financial services sector, particularly within asset management, is diverse and complex. Firms differ not just in size but in their strategies, structures, and how they use technology like OMS (Order Management Systems) and EMS (Execution Management Systems). For professionals, this variation means unique opportunities to match their skills to the right environment.
For example, as early as the 1980s, BlackRock developed the Aladdin platform to manage everything from risk to trade execution. This cutting-edge system, built by skilled engineers and operations professionals, has become a cornerstone of the industry. In contrast, other firms prioritise simplicity, leveraging adaptable OMS/EMS platforms tailored to their investment approach, with integration specialists ensuring smooth implementation.
This diversity means that matching your expertise to a firm’s structure and technological approach is essential. Whether you’re building bespoke solutions or refining existing tools, aligning with the right environment can make all the difference in career progression and impact.
Key roles in OMS/EMS technology
Professionals working with OMS and EMS platforms in asset management firms often follow distinct career paths, each requiring specialised skills. For software engineers, the focus is on designing and developing bespoke platforms that address a firm’s unique trading and portfolio management needs. Platforms such as Charles River IMS are widely used in asset management, requiring engineers to develop integrations that handle everything from order execution to risk analysis seamlessly. Engineers in these roles often work on complex coding projects, ensuring the platform can scale with the firm’s growing demands.
Meanwhile, integration specialists play a key role in bridging technology and business needs. Their work ensures OMS/EMS platforms are implemented effectively, tailored to the firm’s operational workflows, and function optimally across teams. For example, a specialist working with Bloomberg AIM would focus on configuring the system to align with the firm’s specific trading strategies while troubleshooting any implementation challenges. These roles require deep technical knowledge paired with strong communication skills to liaise between IT teams and end-users.
Lastly, operations professionals are often at the forefront of using OMS/EMS platforms to drive day-to-day trading activities. They focus on optimising processes and ensuring platforms run smoothly to support investment decisions. Consider the use of OMS systems like Eze Software, which helps operations teams ensure compliance and streamline trade execution workflows. These professionals are often responsible for translating trading strategies into executable processes, directly impacting the efficiency of the firm’s operations.
Each of these roles is integral to the asset management ecosystem. For mid-level professionals, aligning their skills with the specific needs of a firm can open the door to impactful, career-defining opportunities.
Progression opportunities
Career progression in asset management technology offers mid-level professionals the chance to evolve their skills and take on increasingly impactful roles. Each pathway, whether in engineering, integration, or operations, has its own opportunities for growth, enabling professionals to shape the future of their firms and the industry as a whole.
For software engineers, career development often means stepping into roles such as solution architects, where they design and oversee the technology landscape for the entire firm. At firms using platforms like SimCorp Dimension, engineers might advance to roles where they guide the integration of OMS/EMS systems with portfolio management and analytics tools, ensuring a cohesive and scalable tech stack. These positions are pivotal, combining strategic oversight with technical expertise to future-proof a firm’s operations.
Integration specialists, meanwhile, can grow into strategic advisory roles, where they influence how systems are adopted and utilised across the business. Their deep understanding of both the technology and the operational needs of the firm makes them key voices in decision-making. For example, specialists working with FactSet often transition into roles where they assess new technologies, advise on system upgrades, and provide strategic insights into aligning tools with evolving business goals.
For operations professionals, the path to leadership often involves broader process optimisation or technology management roles. Working with platforms like Aladdin by BlackRock, they might move into positions where they oversee the entire operational framework, driving efficiencies and ensuring systems support the firm’s long-term strategy. This progression allows them to influence not just how systems are used but also how operations align with the firm’s broader objectives.
These career paths highlight the long-term value of roles within asset management technology. For mid-level professionals, the opportunity to grow into more strategic and influential positions makes this sector a rewarding space to build a career.
How OFS helps you find your perfect fit
Finding the right role in asset management technology isn’t just about matching your skills to a job title – it’s about aligning with a firm’s unique structure, culture, and long-term goals. Every buy-side firm operates differently, whether it’s their approach to technology, operational workflows, or the systems they rely on. That’s where OFS comes in.
With a deep understanding of the nuances within asset management firms, OFS excels at identifying opportunities that truly suit candidates’ expertise and ambitions. Whether you’re a software engineer, integration specialist, or operations professional, OFS ensures your skills are matched to roles where you can make a real impact. By considering not just your technical knowledge but also your aspirations, we help you find positions that offer genuine career progression and satisfaction.
For professionals navigating this complex sector, having a trusted partner like OFS can make all the difference. Our tailored approach means you’ll be connected to opportunities that are as unique as the firms themselves. If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch today to see how OFS can help you thrive in your career.
