Pros
Working at First Derivatives could be a great experience for juniors and new graduates who are looking to get exposure to different areas of technology in finance and banking. Compensation is relatively better than similar jobs.
Cons
Although company promises exposure to different areas of banking and potential to travel for , it is very likely that a consultant is assigned to one client and similar projects over and over again. Compare to other capital markets consultancy firms (Deloitte, PWC), First Derivatives appear to be more of a placement agency. Company fails to consider consultant's individual's background in assigning them to a project ; Placement takes priority over overall experience or career path. There is rarely any certain career path as consultants often end up developing skills in areas they did not plan for. Consultants can be contracted to a client as Business Analyst but depending on clients need, consultant can be utilized as QA. There is not a clear HR support system for consultants working outside of HQ. There is very minimal subsidised training options for experienced consultants.