The primary objective of this role is to conduct forward-looking manager research to support Mercer’s to-be-launched offering, Mercer Fund Watch (MFW). MFW is an issuer-paid model of distributing Mercer’s research on investment strategies.

The Manager Research Specialist will evaluate, mainly, equity investment strategies/funds following a global process to identify those who are most capable of generating value for investors. The candidate will primarily research and evaluate strategies relevant to local investors in Hong Kong and Singapore. As such, the candidate will also be responsible for understanding market trends and relevant practices so as to effectively gauge the relative skill and capabilities of investment managers in the country.

Job Responsibilities

Conduct research and publish reports and ratings on the investment strategies

• Perform due diligence on investment management firms and their investment strategies through qualitative and quantitative analysis
• Read the investment managers’ marketing material, review the information they submit through Mercer's proprietary tool, Global Investment Manager Database (GIMD)
• Spend time one-on-one with the investment management firms to explore and interpret the information they have provided and walk through examples of how they evaluate investment decisions
• Perform desktop searches to validate information the investment managers have provided to Mercer
• Perform the quantitative analysis by comparing the total returns the Investment Manager is generating against their peers and against expectations given their process, using a standard industry metrics and comparing over specific time periods
• Make recommendations based on thorough due diligence in the form of research documents which demonstrate a well-articulated view, including the pros and cons of a given strategy, and state Mercer's recommendation / rating based on that research
• Liaise with Mercer’s Ratings Review Committee for oversight and governance of the ratings process

Support investment consulting teams

• Support the investment consulting team in Hong Kong and Singapore, and their clients, as required with information on the investment strategies we research and general information about trends in the market and industry

Job Requirements

• Degree qualified in Finance, Business, Economics or other related discipline
• At least 5-7+ years’ experience in the investment management or consulting industries
• A sound understanding of investment markets and the management of assets
• Strong background in research or investment analysis, with a focus on equity strategies
• Some experience of fixed income or multi-asset strategies is preferable
• Demonstrated analytical capabilities and ability to reach and articulate a view – using excellent writing and communication skills
• Ability to travel regularly to visit with managers and investment consultants located across the country
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to build effective and collaborative working relationships is required
• Willingness to work within a small team and as part of a global group
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal skills and appropriate attention to details
• Ability to make attractive presentation to prospects
• Self-motivation and a ‘can do’ attitude
• CFA charter holder preferred 

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