Chun Kiat Ong

Quant Analyst/Quant Developer, Deriv

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day.

As a quantitative analyst, my typical day revolves around pricing financial products and developing mathematical models to evaluate market risks and opportunities. I spend significant time implementing and refining quantitative models in Python, analysing market data to identify trends, and collaborating with trading teams to provide analytical insights. My work involves calibrating pricing models for derivatives, conducting scenario analysis, and optimizing trading strategies based on statistical methods and financial theory. I also regularly communicate my findings in team meetings and develop documentation for our modelling approaches.

What were the best things about your course?

The best aspects of my course were the technical knowledge I gained and the hands-on project work. The program provided me with a strong foundation in quantitative methods, financial mathematics, and computational techniques that I apply daily in my role. The practical projects were particularly valuable as they allowed me to tackle real-world problems similar to those in the industry. I especially appreciated how the hands-on approach helped bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications, preparing me for the technical challenges I now face professionally.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

My degree was instrumental in securing my position by equipping me with the technical skills demanded in the quantitative finance industry. The rigorous training in mathematical modelling, statistical analysis, and programming gave me a competitive edge during the interview process. Additionally, graduating from a recognizable university with a strong reputation in quantitative disciplines added significant credibility to my resume. Employers in the financial sector acknowledged the quality of the program, which opened doors to interviews and networking opportunities that ultimately led to my current role.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The programming skills I acquired, particularly in Python and C++, have been invaluable for implementing complex mathematical models in my daily work. I regularly leverage these languages to develop pricing algorithms and risk assessment tools. Additionally, the strong foundation in financial risk modelling I gained during my studies directly applies to my responsibilities in evaluating market exposures and portfolio vulnerabilities. Quantitative finance knowledge—spanning topics like stochastic calculus, derivatives pricing, and statistical analysis—forms the theoretical backbone of my analytical approach to financial problems. These technical competencies have enabled me to hit the ground running and contribute meaningfully to my team from day one.

What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?

As someone working in Singapore's financial sector, I've found that having a well-crafted CV that clearly highlights your technical capabilities is crucial. Particularly important is showcasing hands-on projects completed during your degree—these demonstrate practical application of theoretical knowledge. In my experience, employers in Singapore place significant value on candidates who can articulate how they've applied quantitative methods to solve real financial problems.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

My course at the University of Birmingham served as my last formal training and provided a sufficient foundation for my career path. I haven't needed to pursue additional courses or professional certificates to enhance my skills, which speaks to the comprehensive nature of the program. The course equipped me with strong technical foundations that have proven directly applicable to my professional responsibilities. My career development has instead been driven by on-the-job learning, mentorship from senior colleagues, and self-directed study to stay current with evolving market practices and technologies. The rigorous quantitative training from Birmingham gave me the analytical framework to adapt to new challenges independently.

What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?

I would strongly recommend pursuing a well-structured financial mathematics degree that comprehensively covers industry-relevant topics. Ensure your program includes stochastic calculus, derivative pricing models, numerical methods, and programming components. Focus on developing practical implementation skills alongside theoretical understanding—employers value candidates who can transition smoothly from mathematical concepts to working code. Additionally, stay informed about current market trends and technological innovations in quantitative finance. The field is evolving rapidly with machine learning applications becoming increasingly important. Building a portfolio of projects that demonstrate your ability to apply theoretical concepts to real financial problems will significantly strengthen your position when applying for roles.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme?

Study diligently and aim for excellence across all modules, as a strong academic record serves as an initial filter for many employers. However, pay particular attention to project work—these assignments often mirror real-world challenges you'll face in the industry. Approach projects methodically, document your work thoroughly, and be prepared to discuss your methodology and findings in interviews. These projects often become talking points that allow you to demonstrate your problem-solving approach and technical capabilities. Also, form study groups with peers to deepen your understanding through collaborative learning and build a professional network that may benefit you throughout your career.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

Invest time in developing side projects that demonstrate your initiative and ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. Today's accessibility of high-quality financial data presents an excellent opportunity—many cryptocurrency exchanges offer free market data that can be used for developing trading algorithms, risk models, or market analysis tools. Apply the technical skills you're learning in class to analyse this data, then document your findings and methodologies in a GitHub portfolio that you can share with potential employers. Additionally, participate in quantitative finance competitions, attend industry webinars, and consider contributing to open-source financial tools. These activities not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate passion for the field that helps you stand out in a competitive job market.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

I benefited from several seminars organized by the Careers Network where they invited industry practitioners to share insights about the financial sector job market. These sessions were particularly valuable as they provided first-hand information about the skillsets that employers were actively seeking. Hearing directly from professionals working in quantitative finance helped me align my academic focus with industry expectations and better understand how to position myself in the job market. The opportunity to ask questions and occasionally network with these industry representatives gave me practical guidance that complemented my technical education. These events helped bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application, providing me with a clearer roadmap for my career development.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

My fondest memories revolve around the collaborative relationships I formed with my classmates as we tackled challenging quantitative problems together. Those intellectual exchanges created a stimulating environment that enhanced my learning experience. I was also particularly impressed by the approachable and knowledgeable faculty, especially lecturers like Colin Rowat and external supervisor Daniel Duffy, who were genuinely invested in student success and brought real-world perspectives to their teaching.

What was your favourite thing about Birmingham the city? How did it compare to your expectations?

Birmingham pleasantly surprised me with its relatively affordable living costs compared to other major UK cities, which allowed me to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while studying. Its strategic location in the Midlands proved extremely convenient for exploring the rest of the country—I could easily take weekend trips to London, Manchester, or the scenic Cotswolds. The city itself has a vibrant cultural scene with diverse dining options, interesting museums, and good shopping facilities at the Bull Ring. Before arriving, I wasn't sure what to expect from Birmingham, but I found it offered a good balance of urban amenities without the overwhelming pace and expense of London. The University campus was also more spacious and green than I had anticipated, providing a pleasant environment for study and relaxation.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

Road cycling became my primary extracurricular passion during my time at Birmingham. The varied landscape around the West Midlands offered excellent cycling routes—from flat urban paths to more challenging terrain in the nearby countryside. It provided a perfect balance to the intensive mental work of my quantitative studies. Cycling helped clear my mind, maintain physical fitness, and explore areas of the region I wouldn't have otherwise seen. I occasionally joined informal group rides with other students and local cycling enthusiasts, which added a social dimension to the activity. This hobby gave me valuable perspective during demanding study periods and contributed significantly to my overall wellbeing throughout the program.

Please tell us about your experience studying and living away from home.

The international character of the program meant my classmates came from all corners of the globe, each bringing unique perspectives to our discussions. We created wonderful memories together, particularly enjoying nights out after intensive lectures—these informal gatherings strengthened our bonds and often led to fascinating conversations that extended our learning beyond the classroom. While initially challenging, adapting to a new environment developed my independence and resilience. The experience of navigating a different academic system and cultural setting has proven invaluable in my professional life, where adaptability and cross-cultural communication are essential skills. The friendships formed during this period have endured beyond graduation, creating a global network of connections.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I was primarily attracted to Birmingham's comprehensive course structure that covered essential topics in quantitative finance without gaps that might hamper my professional readiness. The program's strong emphasis on C++ training particularly stood out, as I recognized this as a crucial skill for roles in financial modelling and algorithmic trading. Additionally, Birmingham offered exceptional value for money—the combination of reasonable tuition fees and lower living costs compared to London-based institutions meant I could focus on my studies without excessive financial pressure. The University's reputation in mathematical finance and its connections to industry also influenced my decision. After researching several programs, Birmingham emerged as offering the optimal balance of technical rigor, practical skills development, and affordability that aligned perfectly with my career objectives.