Graduate Associate

Absolute Strategy Research (ASR) is an independent investment research firm providing macroeconomic and investment strategy research to institutional investors worldwide.

Our clients include leading asset managers, pension funds, insurers, wealth managers and hedge funds, who use our independent analysis to inform their investment decisions.

We are looking for an ambitious and commercially minded graduate to join our team, gaining experience across business development, marketing, commercial operations and wider business management.

The Opportunity

This is an opportunity to gain broad, hands-on experience within an established financial services business, working closely with experienced colleagues and senior management.

You will support a variety of commercial and operational activities, contributing to initiatives that help grow the business, strengthen client relationships and improve how we work.

The role offers exposure to different aspects of running a business, from marketing and sales to financial reporting, business planning and day-to-day operations.

As your knowledge and experience develop, there will be opportunities to take on greater responsibility, build client relationships and develop your career within the business.

We are looking for someone who is curious, organised, commercially aware and willing to get involved across a range of activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Research prospective clients, markets and new business opportunities.
• Support business development activities, client communications and follow-up.
• Assist with preparing presentations, proposals, reports and meeting materials.
• Help coordinate client meetings, events and other engagement activities.
• Support the planning and delivery of marketing campaigns and communications.
• Assist with promoting, publishing and distributing research, events and other business initiatives.
• Help maintain website content, marketing materials and digital channels.
• Maintain accurate client and business information across internal systems.
• Support commercial reporting, performance tracking and business analysis.
• Assist with financial reporting, budgeting and wider business planning activities.
• Support day-to-day business operations, administrative processes and internal projects.
• Assist with client onboarding, supplier relationships, contracts and compliance-related activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve internal processes, reporting and operational efficiency.
• Contribute to wider business initiatives and projects, working with colleagues across different teams.

Development & Progression

ASR is committed to developing commercial talent and providing opportunities for graduates to build their skills and responsibilities.

The role is designed to provide a strong foundation in marketing, commercial operations and institutional business development, with the potential to develop towards a more client-facing sales position.

Longer-term progression into an institutional sales position may be available for individuals demonstrating the necessary commercial skills, relationship-building capabilities and motivation.

About You

We are looking for someone who is curious, commercially aware and motivated to build a career in financial services.

• A degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Confidence working with data, spreadsheets and digital tools.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A proactive approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• An interest in financial markets, investment research and the institutional investment industry.
• A willingness to learn, take ownership and contribute to a collaborative team.
• Experience through internships, placements or projects involving marketing, sales, research or business development.
• Familiarity with CRM, data management and marketing platforms.
• An aptitude for relationship-building and client-facing communication.

Eligibility to Work in the UK

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United Kingdom. Evidence of the right to work will be required before employment commences.

What We Offer

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Clear opportunities for development and long-term career progression.
• Exposure to the commercial operations of an established independent investment research firm.
• Opportunities to work closely with experienced research analysts and commercial professionals.
• Practical experience across marketing, business development, CRM, sales, commercial operations and business management.
• Opportunities to contribute to strategic projects and gain exposure to senior management.
• A broad understanding of how an independent investment research business is managed and grown.
• Training and development to build commercial and financial markets knowledge.
• The potential for longer-term progression into institutional research sales or other commercial specialisms.