Pontoon Solutions
Junior Associate

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Job Title: Junior Associate
Duration: 12 months, temp to perm
Location: Chester (office based for initial training then hybrid)
Salary: 34,000 per annum
About Pontoon
Pontoon is an employment consultancy. We put expertise, energy, and enthusiasm into improving everyone’s chance of being part of the workplace. We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an inclusive environment that helps them thrive.
Role Overview
Our client, a prominent player in the banking industry, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Associate to join their dynamic ETD Operations team in Chester, UK. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals looking to launch or further their careers within Global Markets Operations, particularly in the realm of post-trade activities supporting listed derivatives and cleared OTC products.
As a Junior Associate, the successful candidate will gain invaluable exposure to a broad range of activities, including operational risk management, regulatory obligations, and control frameworks. This role promises a comprehensive understanding of the full trade lifecycle, providing significant opportunities for professional growth in a vibrant global environment.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Key Responsibilities
Reconciliations, Controls & Oversight
- Perform and review reconciliations between Bank systems and CCPs.
- Investigate position, cash, and trade discrepancies.
- Ensure the accuracy of non-financial regulatory reports.
- Maintain a strong focus on operational risk management and control effectiveness.
Stakeholder Management
- Partner effectively with Front Office, Middle Office, Technology, Finance, Risk, and Compliance teams.
- Engage with exchanges, CCPs, and vendors as necessary.
- Communicate clearly and professionally when managing operational issues and escalations.
Change & Continuous Improvement
- Participate in technology deployments, testing activities, and business change initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to enhance processes, strengthen controls, and boost automation.
- Support the implementation of new regulatory, industry, and exchange requirements.
What Our Client Is Looking For
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy under pressure.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Microsoft Excel skills.
- Demonstrated ownership, accountability, and a solid control mindset.
- Ability to build effective working relationships across teams and regions.


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Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- A curiosity and eagerness to learn.
- A collaborative and team-oriented approach.
- Strong organisational skills and professionalism.
- Adaptability in a changing regulatory and technological landscape.
- The confidence to challenge risks or control concerns.
- A continuous improvement mindset.
Career Development
This role offers broad exposure across EMEA Futures, Options, and Cleared OTC Operations, paving the way for expertise in:
- Clearing Operations
- Reconciliations
- Deliveries
- Regulatory Reporting & Controls
- Client Service
How to Apply
To apply for this opportunity, please apply with an up-to-date CV.
Please note that if you haven't heard from us within 48 hours, your application may not have been successful on this occasion. However, we may keep your details on file for future vacancies and contact you accordingly.
Pontoon is an equal opportunities employer and an employment consultancy.
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