Personal Assistant, Investments

Personal Assistant, Investments

Full-Time No working from home possible
Columbia Threadneedle Investments

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the Head of EMEA Investments with scheduling, travel, and project coordination.
  • Company: Join a global investment firm focused on growth and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Work in a vibrant office environment with a focus on teamwork and inclusivity.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making impactful decisions in the financial sector.
  • Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and experience in administration or project management.

About Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Working at Columbia Threadneedle Investments you'll find growth and career opportunities across all of our businesses. We're intentionally built to help you succeed. Our reach is expansive with a global team of 2,300 people working together. Our capability is diverse with more than 550 investment professionals sharing global perspectives across all major asset classes and markets. Our clients have access to a broad array of investment strategies, and we have the capability to create bespoke solutions matched to clients' specific requirements. Our unwavering focus on our clients and strong financial foundation connects each of our enterprise businesses — Ameriprise Financial, Columbia Threadneedle Investments and RiverSource Insurance and Annuities.

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Assistant to support the Head of EMEA Investments. Working closely with the VP, Planning & Administration for Global Investments and the Regional EMEA Investments Business Manager, you will coordinate executive activities, manage complex schedules and travel arrangements, support meetings and events, and assist with departmental projects and operations.

How you’ll spend your time…

  • Provide day-to-day coordination and support of region leader and project activities to ensure key tasks and deadlines are met.
  • Work closely with VP - Planning and Administration and regional business manager for departmental deliverables.
  • Proactively manage executive calendars, prioritize meetings, and coordinate schedules across internal and external stakeholders.
  • Plan domestic/international travel, off-sites and events, coordinate accommodations and resources, track/file expenses, and create and provide initial analysis of reports.
  • Preparation and coordination of meeting materials.
  • Plan and organize meetings, conferences, and events (logistics, materials, travel, etc.).
  • Prepare expense reports, invoices, presentations, communications, and travel arrangements.
  • Support department operations, including programs like recognition, timekeeping, budgets, and supply management.
  • Provide project and program support (researching questions, coordinating efforts, handling ad hoc requests).
  • May read and respond to emails and requests on behalf of the leader; ensure leader is informed of pending requests or requests where follow up is required.
  • Responds to ad hoc requests and manages small projects.
  • Research, respond, and resolve questions regarding department processes, functions, and requests.
  • Partner with other functional areas to quickly resolve issues and accomplish responsibilities.
  • Interact with internal business partners to track, maintain, and communicate department information.
  • May provide back-up support for other administrative assistants as needed.

To be successful in this role you will have…

  • Prior administrative and/or project management experience.
  • Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to interact with multiple teams and individuals at various professional levels and locations.
  • Strong knowledge and application with Microsoft suite programs (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
  • Demonstrated experience coordinating complicated travel, including international.
  • Excellent organisation skills, attention to detail, accuracy and success in working across multiple teams, offices, and time zones.
  • Exceptional written/verbal communication skills are essential.
  • Ability to handle and keep information confidential.
  • Experience being efficient and skillful while working in a fast-paced environment.

If you also had this, it would be great...

  • Experience with administrative programs: Ariba Buyer, Concur, etc.
  • Project coordination experience.
  • Financial services industry experience.
  • Understanding of the financial markets would be beneficial.

In-Office Collaboration

We are a client-centric, relationship-based business. Working together, in-person, is foundational to how we achieve results. By fostering a culture of face-to-face collaboration, idea sharing, productivity and personal connection, we deliver for our stakeholders — clients, advisors, employees and shareholders. Our employees work in the office at least four (4) days per week, with flexibility to work from home one (1) day per week. Some roles may require additional in-office time or different in-office expectations, and specific requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full time

Worker Sub Type

Permanant

Job Family Group

Business Support & Operations

Columbia Threadneedle is a people business, and we recognise that our success is due to our talented people, who bring diversity of thought, complementary skills and capabilities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and performance-based culture where everyone can belong, grow, contribute and realise their potential.

We appreciate that work-life balance is an important factor for many when considering their next move so please discuss any flexible working requirements directly with your recruiter.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to racial or ethnic background, religion or belief, sex or gender, nationality, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, pregnancy or maternity or any other basis prohibited by law.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to aid your participation in the application or interview process, speak to your recruiter to discuss how we can support you.

Personal Assistant, Investments employer: Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and employee engagement. With a strong focus on professional development, employees have access to numerous growth opportunities within the global HR landscape, particularly in the vibrant EMEA and APAC regions. The company's commitment to compliance and operational excellence ensures that team members can thrive in a supportive environment while making a meaningful impact.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Contact Details:

Columbia Threadneedle Investments Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Personal Assistant, Investments

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Columbia Threadneedle Investments. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistant, Investments

Organisational Skills
Project Management
Interpersonal Skills
Microsoft Office Suite (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)
Travel Coordination
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Columbia Threadneedle Investments's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Columbia Threadneedle Investments.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at Columbia Threadneedle Investments will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former Columbia Threadneedle Investments employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.