Alexander Critien Appointed ING’s Global Head of FM Rates & NonLinear Trading

WHY THIS MATTERS:
Rates and volatility markets have become structurally more complex as macro uncertainty, shifting monetary policy and episodic stress events reshape how risk is priced. For global banks, nonlinear products are no longer niche instruments but core tools for clients managing interest rate exposure across multiple currencies and regimes. Leadership appointments in this space reflect a broader industry focus on combining quantitative sophistication with technology-driven execution. As clients demand more tailored hedging and risk-transfer solutions, banks are investing in talent that can bridge trading, modelling and front-office technology. Strengthening capabilities in nonlinear rates is increasingly central to delivering differentiated outcomes in today’s volatile markets.

ING has appointed Alexander (Alex) Critien as Global Head of FM Rates and NonLinear Trading, effective February 2, 2026. 

In this newly created role, Alex will lead the global FM Rates and NonLinear Trading platform. He will work closely with regional trading teams, technology partners, quantitative functions, and other key stakeholders to build on the firm’s strengths and enhance outcomes for clients worldwide. 

Alex joins with nearly two decades of experience in Rates Options trading, having spent his entire career at J.P. Morgan across London and Paris.  

He has held a series of senior positions from Analyst through to Managing Director, most recently serving as Desk Head and risk owner for the EMEA Rates Options business. 

Niall Carton, Global Head of FM Trading said:  “Alex’s deep expertise in nonlinear markets, combined with his leadership in quantitative innovation, will be  invaluable  as we continue to strengthen our global Rates offering at ING.”  

Throughout his career, Alex has built a strong track record of sustained financial performance and leadership across both clientdriven and risktaking activities.  

He is widely recognised for his contributions to frontoffice technology and quantitative tooling within Rates Options, having personally developed—or led the development of—numerous models and trading tools that have shaped nonlinear pricing and risk management at J.P. Morgan. 

 His expertise spans major volatility products across multiple currencies, including EUR, GBP and CHF, and includes leading complex model transitions during periods of extreme market stress. 

Alex Critien, Global Head of FM Rates and NonLinear Trading said:  “I’m pleased to join ING and work with teams globally to strengthen our Rates and NonLinear offering for clients. It’s a strong platform with great potential, and I look forward to contributing to its continued progress for our clients.” 

FF NEWS TAKE:
This appointment signals ING’s intent to deepen its global rates and volatility franchise. The key measure will be how effectively advanced quantitative tooling translates into client value across regions. Watch for continued investment in technology-led trading as nonlinear risk management grows in importance.