Pros
I have been with Optiver for over 10 years across a few offices. Prior to joining, the longest I had spent in a role was three years, so that probably says something. My time here has been thoroughly rewarding, and working in the Optiver India office continues to be an exciting ride. We are the fastest-growing APAC office, with a lot of opportunity ahead.
Looking back at my time in Mumbai and at Optiver more broadly, a few things stand out:
1. Entrepreneurial Culture
Optiver is a place where data drives decisions. If someone develops an algorithm that improves performance, it gets implemented. If a new signal improves a model, it gets adopted. Ideas can come from anyone, regardless of tenure. In the Mumbai office, we’re exploring new trading opportunities, which creates plenty of room for initiative across both technology and trading.
2. Startup Feel Within a Global Company
Optiver Mumbai is growing quickly, but still small enough that you know most people by name. Collaboration is close-knit, engineers and traders work side by side. It is easy to form cross-functional teams and move quickly on ideas. There’s real startup-like momentum, backed by the resources and stability of a global firm.
3. Great Colleagues
I’m consistently impressed by the people I work with. It’s energising to be surrounded by smart, driven colleagues aligned around a common goal. Even after many years, I’m still learning from those around me. The office has a diverse mix of expats, local hires, and people returning to India from overseas, which adds to the overall environment.
Cons
Optiver is not for everyone. It’s a high-performance environment. It is less suited to those looking for a more relaxed or steady-paced role.
The expectations are high, and the pace can be quick, which some people find takes getting used to. Occasionally, people join without fully appreciating this aspect of the culture and decide it’s not the right fit for them.
For those who enjoy being challenged and working in a high-performance setting, this is also what makes the experience rewarding.
