(In Nov 11 story, corrects paragraph 9 to show that Muwaffaq Salti is with Mandara Capital and not Saxon Capital; adds paragraph 10 giving his designation and a description of the company's activities)

* Movements fuelled by signs of recovery and market optimism * Hirings not limited to trading firms, but also hedge funds

* Despite signs of risk, opportunities abound

By Yaw Yan Chong

SINGAPORE, Nov 11 (Reuters) - The unseasonal round of head-hunting in Asian oil and commodities trading firms that began some months ago as the market recovers, has gathered pace as more people switch jobs, trade sources said on Wednesday.

More than 20 traders have moved from one lucrative position to another since June, including the four senior traders who left their high-profile jobs three months ago, the sources said.

Some companies are expanding into new areas, reflecting that steady recovery after nearly a year of turmoil.

"People have been steadily moving about since the middle of the year," a Singapore-based Western trader said.

"The 20 guys are just the mid-level to senior traders. There are more people such as junior operations personnel and marketing staff who also moved around."