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Trading Desk Lead, Kraken Prime

Building the Future of Crypto 

Our Krakenites are a world-class team with crypto conviction, united by our desire to discover and unlock the potential of crypto and blockchain technology.

What makes us different?

Kraken is a mission-focused company rooted in crypto values. As a Krakenite, you’ll join us on our mission to accelerate the global adoption of crypto, so that everyone can achieve financial freedom and inclusion. For over a decade, Kraken’s focus on our mission and crypto ethos has attracted many of the most talented crypto experts in the world.

Before you apply, please read the Kraken Culture page to learn more about our internal culture, values, and mission. We also expect candidates to familiarize themselves with the Kraken app. Learn how to create a Kraken account here.

As a fully remote company, we have Krakenites in 70+ countries who speak over 50 languages. Krakenites are industry pioneers who develop premium crypto products for experienced traders, institutions, and newcomers to the space. Kraken is committed to industry-leading security, crypto education, and world-class client support through our products like Kraken Pro, Desktop, Wallet, and Kraken Futures.

Become a Krakenite and build the future of crypto!

Proof of work

The team

As leader of the Prime Trading desk, you will help grow our business by interfacing with clients and working cross functionally with Engineers, Quants, Trading Ops, Sales, Account Management, and Legal/Compliance.  You will also guide the team in pricing and risk-managing trades, and cover operational aspects of settlement.

The opportunity

  • Lead and Grow the Prime Trading Desk: Oversee all aspects of the Prime trading operations, including strategy development, business development, execution, and risk management, all while ensuring the desk is positioned for long-term success.

  • Develop and Manage High-Performance Teams: Build and mentor a high-performing team of traders, driving both individual and team growth through effective leadership and training.

  • Client Relationship Management and Business Development: Cultivate and maintain relationships with institutional clients, and other stakeholders. Drive business expansion within the  institutional segment.

  • Innovate and Lead on Trading Infrastructure: Collaborate with tech teams to optimize and innovate the electronic trading infrastructure, from pricing engines to execution and back-office systems.

  • Cross-Desk Collaboration: Work closely with other trading desks (spot, OTC, etc.) to align strategies, enhance liquidity, and drive synergies within the broader trading ecosystem.

  • Work alongside other Kraken traders and cryptocurrency researchers to enhance market knowledge and expertise.

  • Market Insights and Product Innovation: Stay ahead of market trends and leverage new opportunities in the fast-evolving cryptocurrency landscape to ensure the desk remains competitive.

Skills you should HODL

  • 5+ Years of Trading Experience: With proven experience across Prime within financial services.

  • Master’s or PhD: In a quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Finance, or a related field.

  • Expert in Flow Trading, Execution, and Risk: Deep understanding of multivenue pricing, trade execution, and risk management strategies. Expertise with crypto-specific products is not essential.

  • Strategic Thinking and Execution: Ability to drive the long-term growth of the Prime desk through strategic planning, business development, and the optimization of trading operations.

  • Quantitative and Analytical Expertise: Strong quantitative and analytical skills; familiarity with financial modeling and the ability to develop and implement complex trading strategies.

  • Institutional Relationship Experience: Demonstrated ability to cultivate and expand relationships with institutional clients, drive sales, and grow business within the institutional segments.

  • Operational Excellence: In-depth experience with operational processes and safeguards, ensuring trade compliance, smooth execution, and effective risk management throughout the trade lifecycle.

  • Passion for Crypto and Innovation: A deep passion for the crypto industry, including staying at the forefront of new trends, technologies, and developments. A learning attitude and willingness to innovate are crucial.

  • Proficiency in Programming Languages: Python, R, or C++.

  • Strong understanding of financial instruments, risk metrics, and trading workflows.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to translate data into actionable insights.

  • Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with cross-functional teams.

Nice to haves

  • Expertise on Total Return Swap

#LI-Remote

This job is accepting ongoing applications and there is no application deadline.

Please note, applicants are permitted to redact or remove information on their resume that identifies age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment on our team, assessing candidates in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

Kraken is powered by people from around the world and we celebrate all Krakenites for their diverse talents, backgrounds, contributions and unique perspectives. We hire strictly based on merit, meaning we seek out the candidates with the right abilities, knowledge, and skills considered the most suitable for the job. We encourage you to apply for roles where you don't fully meet the listed requirements, especially if you're passionate or knowledgable about crypto!

As an equal opportunity employer, we don’t tolerate discrimination or harassment of any kind. Whether that’s based on race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, citizenship, religion, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state or local laws. 

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Average salary estimate

$125000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$100000K
$150000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Trading Desk Lead, Kraken Prime, Kraken

Join Kraken Prime as a Trading Desk Lead and become an integral part of shaping the future of cryptocurrency! At Kraken, we are all about innovation and commitment to our mission of accelerating global adoption of crypto, enhancing financial freedom for everyone. As a Trading Desk Lead, you'll oversee the Prime trading operations, guiding your team in pricing, risk management, and fostering client relationships. Your role will also focus on mentoring a high-performing team of traders and collaborating with various departments including Engineering, Sales, and Compliance to drive strategic growth. With over 5 years of trading experience and a Master's or PhD in a quantitative discipline, you will leverage your deep expertise in flow trading, risk management, and analytical skills to navigate the complex crypto landscape. At Kraken, we believe in empowering our employees, celebrating diversity, and encouraging continuous learning. Whether you're refining trading strategies, optimizing systems, or leading market insights, your passion for crypto and innovation will shine through. If you're ready to influence the next wave of crypto trading, Kraken wants you on board to unlock new opportunities together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Trading Desk Lead, Kraken Prime Role at Kraken
What are the key responsibilities of a Trading Desk Lead at Kraken Prime?

As a Trading Desk Lead at Kraken Prime, you will oversee and grow the Prime trading operations, develop high-performance teams, manage client relationships, and lead innovations in trading infrastructure. You'll make pivotal decisions related to strategy development, risk management, and ensuring our operations align with the company mission.

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What qualifications are needed for a Trading Desk Lead position at Kraken Prime?

To qualify for the Trading Desk Lead role at Kraken Prime, candidates should possess over 5 years of trading experience along with a Master’s or PhD in a quantitative discipline. A strong background in risk management, execution strategies, and proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or C++ are also essential.

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How does Kraken Prime support the professional growth of a Trading Desk Lead?

Kraken Prime values mentorship and professional development. As a Trading Desk Lead, you'll have opportunities to build and mentor your trading team, receive training, and collaborate cross-functionally, enhancing both individual skills and overall team performance.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the culture like at Kraken for someone in the Trading Desk Lead role?

Kraken fosters a mission-focused and innovative culture that values diversity and excellence. As a Trading Desk Lead, you will find yourself in an environment that encourages collaboration, a learning mindset, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the cryptocurrency space.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What are the benefits of joining Kraken Prime as a Trading Desk Lead?

Joining Kraken Prime as a Trading Desk Lead offers numerous benefits including the chance to shape industry-leading trading operations, work with a globally diverse team, and contribute to pioneering crypto products. You'll also be part of a supportive community that celebrates individual talents and encourages ongoing education.

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Common Interview Questions for Trading Desk Lead, Kraken Prime
Can you describe your experience with flow trading and risk management?

In your response, share specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully implemented flow trading strategies and managed risks. Highlight your understanding of multivenue pricing and how you've navigated challenges in fast-paced trading environments.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach developing high-performance teams in trading?

Discuss your leadership philosophy and provide examples of how you’ve motivated and guided teams in past positions. Emphasize the importance of training, fostering collaboration, and driving individual growth to enhance overall team success.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you find effective in managing institutional client relationships?

Talk about your approaches to establishing trust and credibility with institutional clients. Highlight your experience in identifying their needs, providing tailored solutions, and maintaining ongoing communication to foster long-term partnerships.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay informed about trends in the cryptocurrency market?

Share the sources you follow, whether it’s influential blogs, podcasts, or analytic platforms. Highlight your proactive approach to continuous learning and adapting strategies based on recent market developments.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you explain a complex trading strategy you developed?

Provide a detailed example of a trading strategy you designed, explaining the rationale behind it, the data you used for your analysis, and the eventual results. This showcases your quantitative skills and problem-solving abilities.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What programming languages have you worked with, and how have you applied them in trading?

Discuss your proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and provide examples of how you've utilized these skills to improve trading systems, analyze data, or develop models.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a time when you faced a significant challenge in trading operations.

Have a specific instance prepared where you encountered a challenge related to trade execution or operational compliance. Explain your thought process and the steps you took to resolve the issue.

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How do you ensure compliance and operational excellence in trading?

Discuss your familiarity with compliance procedures and operational checkpoints. Explain how you've implemented practices to enhance trading operations while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

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What role does collaboration play in your trading strategy?

Emphasize the importance of teamwork, especially in cross-functional collaborations. Illustrate with examples of successful projects where collaborative efforts led to improved trading outcomes.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you drive innovation in the electronic trading infrastructure at Kraken Prime?

Explain your perspective on the importance of technology in trading. Discuss potential innovations or improvements you've considered in past roles and how they could apply to the electronic trading infrastructure at Kraken Prime.

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Full-time, remote
DATE POSTED
March 15, 2025

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