Why the Disdain for Middle Office?
During a recent networking event, I mentioned that I previously worked in middle office, and I could feel a noticeable shift in people’s attitudes—they seemed eager to wrap up the conversation. At first, I thought it was just a coincidence, but I noticed similar reactions in other social settings. Most recently, during an interview for a Sales & Trading position, I mentioned my middle office experience, and one interviewer even sighed audibly (I didn’t get the job).
I’m genuinely curious about the negative perception surrounding middle office roles. Isn’t it an essential part of a bank or fund’s operation? My experience was in trading operations, where tasks like reconciliation and P&L reporting are key.
Is this stigma a real issue? Should I reconsider including my ops experience on my resume, or am I just overthinking things?
One response
It’s understandable to feel frustrated about the perception of middle office roles, especially when you know firsthand how crucial they are to the smooth functioning of financial institutions. Unfortunately, there are a few reasons why middle office positions sometimes get looked down upon:
Visibility and Impact: Front office roles, particularly in trading and sales, are often seen as more glamorous because they directly generate revenue and have a more visible impact on the firm’s bottom line. Middle office roles, while essential, tend to operate behind the scenes, which can lead to a lack of appreciation for their contributions.
Career Trajectory: Many people view front office positions as the gateway to exciting career paths in finance. There’s a perception that working in middle office can limit career advancement opportunities, which can make those roles seem less desirable in the eyes of some professionals and recruiters.
Misunderstanding of Skills: Those in front office roles may not fully understand the complexity and importance of middle office functions. This can lead to undervaluation of the skills and expertise required for those roles.
Cultural Bias: There can be a cultural bias within financial institutions that places a higher status on roles that generate immediate profits. This bias creates a divide that isn’t necessarily reflective of the value that middle office teams bring to the table.
That said, your experience in trading ops is valuable, and it equips you with a unique perspective on the trading process and operational efficiency. It can be beneficial to frame your experience in a way that highlights your understanding of the entire transaction lifecycle and how middle office functions support front office success.
If you’re concerned about how your ops experience is perceived, consider how you present it in future conversations and applications. Emphasize your contributions and the skills you’ve gained, and don’t shy away from discussing how your background prepares you for challenges in front office roles. Ultimately, the right employers will appreciate your well-rounded experience.