Head of Credit Research-EMEA

We are seeking an experienced credit analyst as Head of Credit Research to lead our European leveraged finance research, with a focus on high yield performing and distressed credit coverage. This senior leader will be responsible for a third of Octus’ trifecta, meaning the leader will work closely with senior lawyers and reporters with cross border experience and expertise, to create our best-in-class research and analysis. The head of credit research will manage a team of nine analysts, shaping research coverage, establishing best practices and KPIs, and driving collaboration across the Editorial department and with commercial and marketing teams.

The Head of Credit Research will be a driving force in originating actionable investment ideas for our clients so they can stay ahead of the curve. The successful candidate will oversee the publication of timely and insightful credit research reports in touch with market trends. The role requires expertise in fundamental credit analysis, relative value, valuation, and restructuring as well as a proven ability to innovate and deliver value to our subscribers. You will play a key role in developing and mentoring junior talent, ensuring high analytical standards, and improving time to market for research outputs.

This is a highly visible, client-facing role, offering exposure to top institutional asset managers, hedge funds, investment banks, trading desks, and financial and legal advisors. 

The ideal candidate will be expected to have a combination of the following: 

• Track record of successful investment ideas
• Deal making (from pitch to execution)
• An existing network in the credit market
• Ability to convey a clear pitch in writing
• Experience in team leadership (hiring, training, managing skills, managing career development)

What we offer:

• Senior leadership role in a fast-growing, collaborative research environment
• Opportunity to shape best-in-class credit research and coverage
• Generous benefits package
• Hybrid remote work flexibility
• Progression opportunities

Responsibilities

• Drive collaboration with other Editorial managers, legal analysts, and reporters to deliver cross-disciplinary research and analysis
• Lead and develop a team of analysts covering European high yield and distressed credits, including training, mentoring, and performance management
• Shape research coverage strategy for performing and distressed credits, including leading restructuring and recovery analysis supported by valuation models
• Originate and oversee the publication of credit research reports with actionable investment ideas, ensuring timeliness and quality
• Establish and monitor best practices and KPIs for research output and team performance
• Work closely with commercial and marketing teams to maximize the impact of research content and foster relationships with subscribers
• Maintain active dialogue with industry contacts and clients, representing the team at industry events and meetings
• Monitor industry trends and drive thought leadership within the team and wider research group
• Continuously seek and implement new ideas to enhance value for subscribers and improve time to market

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of credit analysis experience, with significant time in a client-facing or decision-making role
• Minimum 3+ years of managerial experience, including direct team leadership, mentoring, and performance management
• Demonstrated experience leading coverage of credits and sectors, including primary market/new issues, covenants, distressed debt opportunities, recovery estimates, and restructuring proceedings
• Advanced skills in financial modeling, cash flow projections, and valuation
• Excellent technical, analytical, written, and oral communication skills
• Strong collaborative approach and ability to work cross-functionally with legal, editorial, commercial, and marketing teams
• Track record of innovation and delivering value to institutional clients