Head of Tactical Trading

Head of Tactical TradingLocations: Dubai (UAE) or Hong Kong (SAR)The MandateWe are partnering with a global trading institution to build a new tactical trading capability from the ground up. This is a semi-systematic seat: setups are built on repeatable, rules-based logic across asset classes, then sized and risk-managed with discretionary judgement. It is not run as a fully automated system, and it is not a purely discretionary trading book.The seat sits on top of an existing institutional execution stack, so the mandate is strategy and risk, not infrastructure build. You will also define the team structure and risk framework for the capability as it scales.The Hard Questions (What You Will Solve)Concentrated flow reads: You've built a concentrated position off observed flow in one instrument, say futures, and want to express it more cheaply through an ETF or options structure. How do you size the substitute leg so basis risk doesn't eat the edge you identified?Orthogonal signal conflict: Your flow-driven thesis says add to a position. An unrelated systematic signal, on rates, vol, or cross-asset correlation, is firing the opposite way at the same time. How do you decide which one gets sized down?Cash-derivative unwind under stress: A concentrated tactical position spans cash, futures, and options legs. Flow reverses and the basis between legs starts moving against you. What determines whether you unwind leg by leg or all at once?The Structural EdgeInstitutional balance sheet and an existing execution stack, so the seat is strategy and risk, not plumbing.Genuine build mandate: risk framework, team structure and hiring plan are yours to define, not inherited.Capital and headcount already committed to this capability ahead of hiring.Ideal ProfileThe Metric: 10+ years trading at a proprietary trading firm, with a verifiable track record in short-horizon, positional, mechanically-driven strategies, and demonstrated comfort layering discretionary sizing on top of a rules-based process.The Tech: Python/SQL fluency sufficient to identify and partially backtest rules-based setups. Production execution is handled by the firm's stack, so the requirement is signal logic, not systems engineering.Compensation & PreferencesNon-compete preference: candidates currently serving or near the end of a non-compete at a proprietary trading firm are in scope; the firm will consider buy-outs of unvested compensation for top talent. $300,000-$450,000 base plus bonus, with a first-year guarantee available for the right candidate and a long-term incentive structure tied to the desks growth.This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary; a final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience, domain expertise, and geographic location.Apply NowAt Onyx Alpha Partners, we are committed to connecting the most sought after talent in the financial world, to opportunities that expand the universe of unconstrained performance within their chosen discipline. If this opportunity aligns with your career aspirations, we encourage you to apply and explore the potential for growth and unparalleled success.