Nomura Data Analyst Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Nomura is a globally recognized financial services group with a robust network that spans over 30 countries, dedicated to connecting markets and providing innovative solutions to individuals, institutions, and governments.

As a Data Analyst at Nomura, you will play a critical role in the Risk Management division, specifically focusing on Credit Risk Management. Your key responsibilities will include conducting thorough client due diligence and financial analyses, summarizing findings in credit approval memos, and reviewing trading activities to ensure compliance with risk limits. You will also be expected to assess the creditworthiness of clients, maintain updated credit research, and participate in firm-wide projects. Strong analytical abilities, proficiency in Excel and SQL, and a solid understanding of financial products will be essential to your success in this position. Ideal candidates will possess a background in finance, accounting, or a related field, along with exceptional communication skills that facilitate effective negotiation and collaboration with various stakeholders.

This guide will help you prepare for your interview by providing insights into the skills and experiences valued by Nomura, ensuring you can articulate your qualifications and make a lasting impression.

The interview process for a Data Analyst position at Nomura is structured and thorough, reflecting the company's commitment to finding candidates who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also align with its corporate culture. The process typically consists of several rounds, each designed to assess different competencies and fit for the role.

1. Initial Screening

The first step in the interview process is an initial screening, which is often conducted via a phone call with a recruiter or hiring manager. This conversation typically lasts around 30 minutes and focuses on your background, motivations for applying to Nomura, and a general overview of your skills and experiences. Expect to discuss your understanding of the financial services industry and your interest in the specific role.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates usually undergo a technical assessment. This may take the form of a video interview or an online assessment, where you will be tested on your analytical skills, proficiency in SQL, and understanding of statistical concepts. Questions may cover topics such as data manipulation, probability calculations, and basic algorithms. This round is crucial as it evaluates your technical capabilities and problem-solving skills relevant to the role.

3. Behavioral Interviews

After successfully passing the technical assessment, candidates typically participate in one or more behavioral interviews. These interviews are often conducted by team members or managers and focus on your past experiences, teamwork, and how you handle challenges. Expect to answer competency-based questions that require you to provide specific examples from your previous work or academic experiences. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your interpersonal skills and cultural fit within Nomura.

4. Final Interview

The final stage of the interview process usually involves a more in-depth discussion with senior management or team leads. This interview may include both technical and behavioral questions, as well as discussions about your career aspirations and how they align with Nomura's goals. You may also be asked to present a case study or a project you have worked on, showcasing your analytical skills and thought process.

Throughout the interview process, candidates should be prepared for a mix of technical and situational questions, as well as discussions about their understanding of financial products and market dynamics.

As you prepare for your interviews, consider the types of questions that may arise in each round, focusing on your technical expertise and past experiences.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Understand the Interview Structure

Nomura's interview process typically consists of multiple rounds, including technical and behavioral interviews. Familiarize yourself with the structure, as you may encounter 3-4 rounds, often starting with a screening call followed by technical assessments. Be prepared for both one-on-one and panel interviews, where you may be assessed by various team members. Knowing the format will help you manage your time and responses effectively.

Prepare for Technical Proficiency

As a Data Analyst, you will need to demonstrate a strong understanding of statistics, probability, and SQL. Brush up on your technical skills, particularly in SQL queries, data manipulation, and statistical analysis. Practice solving problems that require you to apply these concepts, as interviewers may ask you to explain your thought process while working through technical challenges. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you utilized these skills in real-world scenarios.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills

Nomura values candidates who can think critically and analyze complex data sets. Prepare to discuss specific examples from your previous experience where you successfully analyzed data to drive decision-making. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you highlight your analytical approach and the impact of your work.

Emphasize Communication and Teamwork

Given the collaborative nature of the role, it's essential to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you have worked in teams, resolved conflicts, and contributed to group projects. Highlight your ability to present complex information clearly and concisely, as this will be crucial in your role at Nomura.

Align with Company Culture

Nomura places a strong emphasis on its values and culture. Research the company's mission, recent initiatives, and its approach to risk management. Be ready to articulate why you want to work at Nomura and how your values align with theirs. This will not only show your enthusiasm for the role but also your commitment to being a part of their team.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect a range of competency-based questions that assess your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Questions may focus on your problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and how you handle pressure. Reflect on your experiences and prepare examples that demonstrate your skills and how you embody the qualities Nomura seeks in its employees.

Stay Professional and Positive

Throughout the interview process, maintain a professional demeanor and a positive attitude, even if you encounter challenging questions or situations. Nomura values professionalism and respect, so ensure that you engage with your interviewers thoughtfully and respectfully. This will leave a lasting impression and demonstrate your suitability for the company culture.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you will position yourself as a strong candidate for the Data Analyst role at Nomura. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Data Analyst interview at Nomura. The interview process will likely assess a combination of technical skills, analytical thinking, and behavioral competencies. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their understanding of financial products, risk management, and data analysis techniques, as well as their ability to communicate effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the difference between credit risk and market risk?

Understanding the distinctions between these two types of risk is crucial for a role in risk management.

How to Answer

Discuss the definitions of credit risk and market risk, providing examples of each. Highlight how they impact financial institutions differently.

Example

"Credit risk refers to the potential that a borrower will fail to meet their obligations in accordance with agreed terms, while market risk is the risk of losses in financial markets due to factors that affect the entire market. For instance, a default on a loan represents credit risk, whereas fluctuations in stock prices represent market risk."

2. What metrics would you use to assess the creditworthiness of a client?

This question tests your knowledge of credit analysis.

How to Answer

Mention key metrics such as credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and historical payment behavior. Explain how these metrics provide insights into a client's financial health.

Example

"I would assess a client's creditworthiness using metrics like their credit score, which reflects their credit history, and the debt-to-income ratio, which indicates their ability to manage monthly payments. Additionally, I would review their payment history to identify any patterns of late payments."

3. Describe a time when you used data analysis to solve a problem.

This question evaluates your practical experience with data analysis.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example where your analysis led to a positive outcome. Focus on the tools and methods you used.

Example

"In my previous role, I analyzed customer transaction data to identify trends in purchasing behavior. By using SQL to extract relevant data and Excel for analysis, I discovered that a significant portion of our sales came from a specific demographic. This insight allowed the marketing team to tailor their campaigns effectively, resulting in a 20% increase in sales."

4. How do you ensure the accuracy of your data analysis?

Accuracy is critical in data analysis, especially in finance.

How to Answer

Discuss the methods you use to validate data, such as cross-referencing with other sources or using statistical techniques.

Example

"I ensure the accuracy of my data analysis by implementing a multi-step validation process. This includes cross-referencing data with reliable sources, conducting consistency checks, and using statistical methods to identify outliers or anomalies that may indicate errors."

5. What is your experience with SQL, and how have you used it in your previous roles?

SQL is a key skill for data analysts, and this question assesses your proficiency.

How to Answer

Describe your experience with SQL, including specific tasks you have performed, such as querying databases or creating reports.

Example

"I have extensive experience with SQL, having used it to query large datasets for analysis. For instance, I created complex queries to extract sales data from our database, which I then used to generate reports for management. This helped in identifying sales trends and informing strategic decisions."

Behavioral Questions

1. Why do you want to work at Nomura?

This question assesses your motivation and alignment with the company's values.

How to Answer

Express your interest in Nomura's global presence and commitment to innovation in financial services.

Example

"I am drawn to Nomura because of its strong reputation in the financial services industry and its commitment to connecting markets globally. I admire the company's focus on disciplined entrepreneurship and believe my skills in data analysis can contribute to its mission of providing creative solutions to clients."

2. Can you describe a challenging situation you faced in your previous role and how you handled it?

This question evaluates your problem-solving skills and resilience.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example of a challenge, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome.

Example

"In my last position, we faced a tight deadline for a critical project due to unexpected data discrepancies. I organized a team meeting to identify the issues and delegated tasks to ensure we could resolve them quickly. By collaborating effectively and prioritizing our efforts, we completed the project on time, which was well-received by management."

3. How do you prioritize your tasks when working on multiple projects?

This question assesses your time management skills.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to prioritization, such as using project management tools or assessing deadlines and impact.

Example

"I prioritize my tasks by assessing deadlines and the potential impact of each project. I use project management tools to keep track of my responsibilities and regularly communicate with my team to ensure alignment on priorities. This approach helps me manage my workload effectively and meet deadlines consistently."

4. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult team member. How did you handle it?

This question evaluates your interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team.

How to Answer

Share a specific example, focusing on your approach to communication and conflict resolution.

Example

"I once worked with a team member who was resistant to feedback. I approached the situation by having an open conversation to understand their perspective. By actively listening and addressing their concerns, we were able to find common ground and improve our collaboration, ultimately leading to a successful project outcome."

5. How do you stay updated with industry trends and developments?

This question assesses your commitment to professional growth.

How to Answer

Mention specific resources you use, such as industry publications, online courses, or networking events.

Example

"I stay updated with industry trends by subscribing to financial news outlets, attending webinars, and participating in professional networking events. I also engage in online courses to enhance my skills and knowledge, ensuring I remain informed about the latest developments in the financial services sector."