Fixed Income Trader

Job Type: Full Time
Location: Nairobi
Reporting Line: Head of Fixed Income

Introduction to Standard Investment Bank

Standard Investment Bank Ltd (SIB) is a leading financial services firm in Kenya founded in 1995. The firm offers individual and institutional clients a single point of entry for Asset Management, Securities Trading, Market Research, Investment Management and Corporate Finance.

SIB is a member of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) and is licensed and regulated by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) as an Investment Bank and the Retirement Benefits Authority as a Pensions Fund Manager.

SIB is also licensed by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to operate Special Collective Investment Schemes (CISs), in line with the provisions of the Capital Markets Act and the Capital Markets (Collective Investment Schemes) Regulations, 2023.

About the Role

In line with our mission to positively impact the financial prosperity of people and organizations; SIB is looking to hire a highly analytical and proactive Fixed Income Trader to join our team in Nairobi. The ideal candidate will possess market knowledge in fixed income securities, sound judgment, and the ability to execute trades efficiently while maintaining high standards of client service and risk management. This role involves active participation in the fixed income markets, position management, and engagement with both institutional clients and counterparties.

Roles & Responsibilities

1. Market & Trading Activities
   • Provide timely updates and market colour to clients, relationship managers, and internal stakeholders.
   • Price fixed income instruments accurately and competitively.
   • Execute trades in government securities, corporate bonds, and REIT instruments in line with client instructions and internal strategies.
   • Monitor market movements, liquidity conditions, and interest rate developments to identify trading and investment opportunities.
   • Manage positions within approved limits and ensure adherence to risk policies.
2. Client & Counterparty Engagement
   • Respond promptly to client enquiries and provide reliable pricing and execution.
   • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, brokers, and other market participants.
   • Support the sales and research teams by offering product insights and market analysis.
3. Risk Management & Compliance
   • Ensure all trading activities comply with regulatory requirements and internal controls.
   • Maintain proper trade records and documentation in line with audit and compliance standards.
   • Escalate unusual market activity, operational issues, or limit breaches in a timely manner.
4. Research & Reporting
   • Contribute to fixed income research and economic commentary.

Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Actuarial Science Economics, Business, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Minimum 2–5 years experience in fixed income trading, treasury dealing, or capital markets.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CFA, ICIFA) are an added advantage.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of fixed income products, market mechanics, and pricing conventions.
• Solid grasp of regulatory frameworks governing fixed income markets in Kenya.

Competencies

• Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and relationship management abilities.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure trading environment.
• Integrity, sound judgement, and commitment to compliant trading practices.