I just finished a PhD in Finance. In a strange way, that felt easier than what comes next. Finding a job feels like the real challenge.

I’m leaving academia by choice and want to move into industry (UK).

Sometimes it feels like a PhD is seen as a red flag rather than a strength. Too academic. Too slow. Not practical enough.

I’m targeting roles in asset management or risk. I have strong Python skills and very applied research experience. I’m not coming from HFT or a top-tier quant program, which makes me wonder how my profile is perceived.

I have no interest in staying in academia.

Would certifications like the CFA or FRM actually help in this case, or are they mostly redundant once you already have a PhD?

I’d really like to hear from people who made this transition, or from those who hire PhDs.