Job Description
ABOUT MAINSTREET PARTNERS
MainStreet is the trusted ESG and Sustainability partner of top-tier investors and distributors for a simple reason: it provide a one stop shop for their sustainability requirements at portfolio level. MainStreet’s clients comprise some of the most sophisticated and leading Wealth Managers, Asset Managers, Investment Banks, and Asset Owners in the financial industry.
MainStreet is part of Allfunds Group, one of the leading global Wealth Tech companies with a service offering tailored for Fund Houses and Distributors. MainStreet is located in London and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
It offers a unique and user-friendly platform hosting all proprietary data across asset classes on ESGeverything.COM
MainStreet provides investors and distributors with the following ESG and Sustainability data and services:
· ESG and Sustainability ratings (funds/ETFs, equities and credit, government and supranational bonds, green, social, sustainability and sustainability linked bonds, private assets funds);
· SDG ratings and Impact Results (funds/ETFs, equities and credit, green, social, sustainability and sustainability linked bonds);
· Controversies (exclusion lists and analysis of controversial activities and behaviours);
· ESG and Impact Audits and Reports;
· Regulatory Data (PAI, EET, Taxonomy …);
· ESG and Sustainability Universes and Model Portfolios.
For more information please visit: MSPartners.ORG
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JOB DESCRIPTION
MainStreet Partners has experienced rapid growth over the past few years. We plan to continue expanding to achieve our ambitious goal of becoming a key player in the European sustainable finance industry.
We are seeking a talented Research Associate to join our growing GSS Bonds team. The ideal candidate is passionate about sustainable investing and ESG principles, with a solid understanding of fixed income instruments and the GSS (Green, Social, and Sustainability) Bonds market. In this role, you will analyse the global GSS bond market, uncover valuable insights, and contribute to our industry-leading ESG data offerings.
Please note: The candidate must have the right to work in the UK by their start date.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
· Analyse bond documentation and sustainability reports to assess individual GSS bonds. Gather and evaluate data on relevant sustainability KPIs, ensuring the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the GSS Bonds database.
· Identify and interpret key trends shaping the GSS Bonds market. Translate findings into actionable insights to inform internal strategy and generate thought leadership content for external audiences.
· Contribute to and author engaging articles and analytical reports on the GSS Bonds market. These reports will be shared with global media and industry stakeholders to raise awareness of sustainable finance and deepen understanding of this dynamic sector.
· Conduct detailed analyses on GSS bond data and present the findings in clear, concise, and visually engaging formats for both internal and external stakeholders.
· Communicate insights effectively across teams to foster knowledge sharing and support data-driven decision-making.
KEY SKILLS
· Minimum 3 years of experience in financial services, consulting, or sector-specific NGOs.
· Proven quantitative skills in analysing and interpreting data related to fixed income instruments.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
· Highly organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
· Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with strict deadlines.
PREFERRED SKILLS
· Proficiency in Python, database management, SQL, and business intelligence tools (e.g., QuickSight).
· Proficiency in Italian, French, or Spanish is a plus
WHAT WE OFFER
· Competitive remuneration.
· Hybrid working policy: 3 days a week in the office, with up to 2 days remote.
· Health insurance with Vitality, Life Insurance, and access to the LifeWorks Employee Assistance Programme (from day one).
· Annual leave: 22 days per year, plus one additional day for each year of service (up to a maximum of 28 days), in addition to UK Bank Holidays.
· Pension: Contributory private pension scheme via NEST (available after 3 months of service).
· Bonus scheme: Discretionary annual bonuses based on individual and company performance.
· Technical and professional training: On-the-job technical training and financial support for relevant external training.
· Mentorship programme: After completion of probation, each employee may select a senior colleague from another team as a mentor.
· Diverse and inclusive culture that values sustainability, impact, and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land GSS Bonds - Research Associate in London
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
✨Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences
Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like MainStreet Partners. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
✨Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise
Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from MainStreet Partners.
✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like MainStreet Partners. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in MainStreet Partners and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show MainStreet Partners how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at MainStreet Partners
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with MainStreet Partners.
✨Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
✨Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with MainStreet Partners's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
