UN Blog: What are entry level positions in investment management industry? and 2013-05-16 Russell Investments Center

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

What are entry level positions in investment management industry? and 2013-05-16 Russell Investments Center

What are entry level positions in investment management industry?

I'm currently a college student and i'm seeking an entry level position in investment management, investment banking, private wealth management. I don't have any professional experience in investment industry because i'm still in college. The only qualifications i can think of i have investment related is i manage various assets for my own, parents, brother's, and several friends accounts. I diversify their portfolio's between, equity, derivatives (options), and fixed income. I invest based on their risk/return objectives and time frame. With my account i short as well using margin. That's my whole experience. I'm not looking for internship because it's too late for that, i'm looking for an entry level position. My goal one day is to do portfolio management for high networth clients. Where should i start now? Should i seek entry level positions in financial analyst or something else?

Investment best answer:

Answer by cactusgene
New hires are typically hired into investment management as Portfolio Management Assistants. They are typically responsible for screening for potential investments, monitoring portfolio characteristics, and assisting in client relations. This role varies depending on which segment of the firm you work in – mutual fund, institutional, or high-net-worth. Entry-level positions with hedge funds are typically difficult to find. Individuals looking to work with alternative investment vehicles may be able to find entry-level positions with Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITS).

Skill Requirements:
Newly-hired Portfolio Management Assistants are often recent graduates with degrees in accounting, finance, or economics. All candidates should have:

- Quantitative and analytical skills
- Verbal and written communication skills
- Motivation and tenacity
- Decision making and problem solving skills
- Interpersonal skills
- An understanding of capital markets
- The ability to work on several projects at one time

Tasks:
- Screen for potential investments by evaluating market capitalization, earnings growth, and valuation multiples
- Monitor portfolio characteristics and assist in client relations
- Support portfolio managers that oversee specific investment funds (for example, a specific mutual fund or pension fund)
- Monitor the reconciliation of trades and produce monthly client reports
- Collect economic and market data for the investment commentary and portfolio analysis