Securitisation pros need foreign languages

Recruiters say banks are looking for securitisation staff with European language skills.

"A select number of banks are strategically enhancing their Southern European coverage, particularly Iberia," says Ted Tracey, a consultant at search firm Kinsey Allen. "We are seeing demand for ABS professionals with proven origination backgrounds, ideally Portuguese or Spanish natives."

David Howell, managing director of recruitment firm EM Group, says securitisation pros who speak more than one language can command a premium of as much as 15% over those who don't. "Growth in continental Europe means it helps to be fluent in three European languages," he says.

Deutsche Bank is among those thought to be expanding in this area. In June it appointed Massimo Ruggieri as director of its Italian securitisation business. Junior hires are likely to follow.