Transaction Cost Analyst, Specialist
About Vanguard
More than 45 years ago, John C. Bogle had a vision to start an investment company that did things differently. A company with no external shareholders. Where all the profits were invested back into the business and used to lower costs. Evidently, it was as bold as it was brilliant. To this day, Vanguard Group still has no external shareholders. That means no share prices to protect, and no profits to generate for outside owners.
Today, Vanguard is one of the world's largest investment management companies, serving more than 50 million investors worldwide. For more than 25 years Vanguard Australia has been supporting individual investors, financial advisers, and superannuation
Job Profile Summary
The Transaction Cost Specialist advances trading efficiency and analytics capability across the region and globally, provides research and evaluation for, and leads the implementation of, transformative trading processes, technologies, and analytic tools to minimize transaction costs. The role blends strategic and operational focus: microstructure and technical expertise with strong stakeholder engagement, supporting trading desks, technology partners, and regional leadership.
Core Responsibilities
- Works independently on transaction cost analysis, under the guidance of senior analysts, to generate actionable recommendations for trading desks based on rigorous research and quantitative analysis. Researches, evaluates, tests, and implements cutting-edge trading technology, analytics, data sources, and other tools.
- Develops and prototypes technology tools that provide value to the transaction cost analysis processes. Enhances existing models, develops data sources and processes, and communicates results. Applies machine learning techniques and alternative data to improve TCA precision and decision-support.
- Develops and maintains knowledge of market structure, microstructure, and transaction cost analysis, especially in the APAC region, to bring an informed perspective to the research process.
- Acts as primary TAS contact for APAC trading, local technology and product teams. Uses communication and interpersonal skills to integrate with the trading desk. Tailors communication of complex concepts to the needs and abilities of the audience.
- Contributes to the global TAS agenda, coordinate with the global team to align tools and analytics models, participate and drive some of the global initiatives.
Skills required
- Exceptional conceptual, analytical, and problem solving skills, with proven ability to build/execute.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, and professional presence.
- Proficiency in SQL, Python and ML libraries; familiarity with OneTick a plus
- Experience and/or interest in market microstructure, TCA, equities, and fixed income analytics.
- Minimum of 3 years related work experience, preferably including one year transaction cost analysis experience
- Advanced degree in quantitative discipline
Inclusion Statement
Vanguard's continued commitment to diversity and inclusion is firmly rooted in our culture. Every decision we make to best serve our clients, crew (internally employees are referred to as crew), and communities is guided by one simple statement: "Do the right thing."
We believe that a critical aspect of doing the right thing requires building diverse, inclusive, and highly effective teams of individuals who are as unique as the clients they serve. We empower our crew to contribute their distinct strengths to achieving Vanguard's core purpose through our values.
When all crew members feel valued and included, our ability to collaborate and innovate is amplified, and we are united in delivering on Vanguard's core purpose.
Our core purpose: To take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success.
How We Work
Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.
Want more jobs like this?
Get Data and Analytics jobs in Melbourne, Australia delivered to your inbox every week.

Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- FSA
- HSA
- Health Reimbursement Account
- Fitness Subsidies
- On-Site Gym
- HSA With Employer Contribution
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Mental Health Benefits
- Virtual Fitness Classes
- Pet Insurance
Parental Benefits
- Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
- Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
- Fertility Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
- Adoption Leave
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Company Outings
- Commuter Benefits Program
- Casual Dress
- Happy Hours
- Snacks
- Some Meals Provided
- On-Site Cafeteria
Vacation and Time Off
- Personal/Sick Days
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation
- Volunteer Time Off
- Leave of Absence
Financial and Retirement
- Relocation Assistance
- Performance Bonus
- 401(K) With Company Matching
- 401(K)
- Financial Counseling
- Profit Sharing
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Mentor Program
- Shadowing Opportunities
- Access to Online Courses
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Internship Program
- Lunch and Learns
- Leadership Training Program
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
Company Videos
Hear directly from employees about what it is like to work at Vanguard.