Associate – Quantitative Researcher / Portfolio Manager, Model Portfolio Solutions

About this role

Who is MASS?

You are joining the Multi-Asset Strategies & Solutions (MASS) team which is the investment group that sits at the heart of BlackRock's portfolio construction, asset allocation, and active management ecosystem. MASS draws on the full toolkit of the firm’s index, factor, and alpha-seeking investment capabilities to deliver investment outcomes and ground-breaking alpha insights. We are one of the fastest growing businesses of BlackRock and see a further acceleration of whole portfolio conversations in the years ahead.

Why is your role important?

BlackRock is seeking an experienced quantitative Researcher / Portfolio Manager to join the regional business and focus on International; this role will be based in Sydney. The role will involve localization of our existing global strategies to the Australia business, and the development of new investment strategies, portfolio construction, and portfolio management techniques for use more broadly by the global business. Success in this role will require strong analytical and quantitative skills and experience, evidenced by an advanced degree and significant experience in investments or financial markets. In addition, the candidate should possess the ability to collaborate effectively with a team of researchers and portfolio managers, both within the global MASS team and across the wider BlackRock community and should possess strong communication skills. The successful candidate will have a track record of contributing to proven investment performance and communicating these results to internal stakeholders and/or clients.

In this role the Researcher & Portfolio Manager will:

• Provide model-management support for the flagship Australian model ranges, including performance evaluation, risk monitoring, portfolio construction and implementation.
• Support strategic portfolio construction and quantitative manager selection research for the growing customized solutions business. This business usually starts with a parent SAA and then evaluates modifications according to client requirements.
• Leverage external and internal BlackRock technology, tools and global best practices to help evolve the MPS research-investment process. Use technology to bring scale to processes.
• Support the development of new products and solutions from inception to launch.
• Carry out original investment research that generates alpha for our clients. Implement these insights in client portfolios and models, using them to deliver investment performance that meets or exceeds client expectations.
• Remain current on developments in global financial markets and economics, with a focus on International.
• Build partnerships and strong working relationships.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree essential, and Postgraduate degree/CFA holder preferred.
• 2 years minimum experience related to portfolio management and/or investment research.
• Good knowledge of quantitative finance theory and investment processes, in particular portfolio construction. Knowledge of quantitative manager selection or signal selection methods a plus.
• Creativity and capability to move ideas to implementable investment insights.
• Good communication and presentation skills, and proficient in English.
• Advanced programming skills and experience — Python language is a must; and familiarity with Bloomberg.
• Must possess a strong work ethic and must be a team player.

Our benefits
To help you stay energized, engaged and inspired, we offer a wide range of benefits including a strong retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, comprehensive healthcare, support for working parents and Flexible Time Off (FTO) so you can relax, recharge and be there for the people you care about.

Our hybrid work model

BlackRock’s hybrid work model is designed to enable a culture of collaboration and apprenticeship that enriches the experience of our employees, while supporting flexibility for all. Employees are currently required to work at least 4 days in the office per week, with the flexibility to work from home 1 day a week. Some business groups may require more time in the office due to their roles and responsibilities. We remain focused on increasing the impactful moments that arise when we work together in person – aligned with our commitment to performance and innovation. As a new joiner, you can count on this hybrid model to accelerate your learning and onboarding experience here at BlackRock.

About BlackRock

At BlackRock, we are all connected by one mission: to help more and more people experience financial well-being.  Our clients, and the people they serve, are saving for retirement, paying for their children’s educations, buying homes and starting businesses. Their investments also help to strengthen the global economy: support businesses small and large; finance infrastructure projects that connect and power cities; and facilitate innovations that drive progress.

This mission would not be possible without our smartest investment – the one we make in our employees. It’s why we’re dedicated to creating an environment where our colleagues feel welcomed, valued and supported with networks, benefits and development opportunities to help them thrive.

For additional information on BlackRock, please visit @blackrock | Twitter: @blackrock | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/blackrock

BlackRock is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to age, disability, family status, gender identity, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation and other protected attributes at law.