Job Summary

This role is report to the EVP, Group Asset Management and provide specialist investment-related expertise in support of all members of the bank (most especially to those who are operating in a client-facing and/or business development role). Work particularly closely with (and in support of) the AWM division’s Relationship Managers, Business Developers and all other client-facing staff, as well as Fund Managers and Research Analysts. Participate actively in client meetings and discussions (in the role of ‘Investment Strategist – asset management products and services’) where required by RMs/Business Developers, most especially with those in Private Banking, Retail and Asset Management.

Main Responsibilities

Be ‘expert’ in all aspects of the investment banking business, particularly where the marketing and sale of investment products and services are concerned.
Assess clients’ investment needs and propose/recommend portfolios.
Construct client investment portfolios across asset classes and geographies.
Define asset allocation and re-allocation models.
Conduct portfolio valuations and revaluations, as a component of the portfolio construction/allocation/re-allocation process.
Contribute to the training and development of selected staff from all divisions re: the marketing and sale of investment products and services, with the specific aims of ensuring (a) a suitable level of expertise throughout the bank (b) the avoidance of miss-selling.
Be responsible for creating technical and product-related material in support of the bank’s investment sales activity, as well as organizing and running product workshops.
Support client-facing staff in responding to RFPs and designing, specifying, and quoting investment solutions.
Work especially closely with the Business Controls Manager in order to ensure, at all times, the propriety of the investment business booked, and that all regulatory obligations are fulfilled across multiple jurisdictions.
Be a client-orientated business developer, and not ‘merely’ the product ‘expert’.
Be a primary Point of Contact for the Product Management staff, with responsibility for accurately refining, consolidating and communicating client needs, as well as prioritizing client requests.
Support the identification of new business opportunities re: the segmentation of clients and products, across all distribution channels.
Work with the Product Management unit to arrive at appropriate pricing structures/ policies.
Participate in regular business development discussions to review performance, to make product-related recommendations and to address any concerns. Contribute to the attainment of AWM’s objectives, as measured by established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Promote cost consciousness and efficiency and enhance productivity, to minimize cost, avoid waste, and optimize benefits for the bank.
Contribute to the identification of new business opportunities, in conjunction with all unit heads.
Act within the limits of the powers delegated to the incumbent and delegate authority to the respective staff and monitor exercise of the same.
Demonstrate clear understanding of the important factors behind the bank's financial & non-financial performance
Identify the market requirement for specific investment products/services based on established client need, of investments, portfolio management, funds administration, operational procedures and all forms of internal/external controls.
Exhibit a detailed understanding of economic ‘fundamentals’ as well as an ability to analyze their impact on financial markets.
An understanding of global taxation issues.
A close understanding of how to construct/manage investment portfolios, in accordance with client circumstances (including retirement planning) and risk appetite.
Demonstrate pre-emptive ‘thought leadership’ re: the suitability of all investment products/services.
Identify development needs (both personal and for others) and co-ordinate / organize appropriate technical and/or product training.
Ability to train and mentor colleagues, as required, proactively identify areas for professional development of self and undertake development activities. Seek out opportunities to remain current with all developments in professional field.
Take decisive action to ensure speedy resolution of unresolved grievances or conflicts within the team members. Identify development opportunities and activities for staff and facilitate/coach them to improve their effectives and prepare them to assume greater responsibilities.

Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor / Masters degree (Masters preferred) and MBA with a minimum 15 years’ experience in the investment management industry.
CFA (Level 3) is required, CIM (Chartered Investment Manager) or equivalent.
Ability to relate to clients, at all levels. Although this is primarily a product specialist role, the incumbent will clearly be interacting, frequently, with clients.
Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing with all levels of management; Understanding of all relevant regulations, laws, policies and procedures in relation to investment management products and services.
Excellent communication skills in English - with Arabic ability an added advantage.
Strong business acumen, commercial awareness and revenue-generating skills.
Effective problem solving skills.
Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills
Ability to operate in a team of individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Senior Vice President Asset Management Strategy - Investment Banking