In situations of fast-paced change, business analysis is even more relevant than ever. Business Analysts are able to help organisations identify problems, opportunities and threats, and work with stakeholders to create new products, new ways of working and new ways of solving problems. Within the financial services technology space, Business Analysts play a critical role in a company's productivity, efficiency, and profitability. A Business Analyst’s role can differ from one firm to another but there is certainly a theme amongst the skills they require. 

A number of our clients from Asset Management firms and Investment Banks are currently looking to recruit Business Analysts, and with this in mind, I wanted to share with you the top five skills that they look for in a BA. 

• Business Knowledge

Strong business knowledge is essential when working within a Financial Services firm, whether this be Front, Middle or Back Office or multi-asset exposure. An in-depth understanding in as many of these areas as possible will be a huge advantage. 

• Communication Skills

Business Analysts spend a large amount of their time interacting with clients, users, management, and developers. Therefore, being an effective communicator is key. 

A project's success may revolve around your ability to communicate things like project requirements, changes, and testing results.

• Problem-Solving Skills

Business Analysts work to build a shared understanding of problems, outline the parameters of the project, and determine potential solutions.

• Critical Thinking Skills

Business Analysts must assess multiple choices before leading the team toward a solution. Effectively doing so requires a critical review of data, documentation, user input surveys, and workflow. 

• System/Technical Skills

Financial Services firms expect Business Analysts to have strong knowledge of a number of systems and applications. Technically most clients expect a knowledge of SQL Server, Excel, VBA, XML and sometimes a programming language. 

If you are a client who are searching for a candidate with these skills then please get in touch to see where we could add value to your search. 

Clients I am currently working with are looking to grow their Business Analysis teams at present, so If you are a Business Analyst who is searching for a new role then please get in touch with me on 0203 5877007.