Graduate Research Associate

Graduate Research Associate

Full-Time 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support senior analysts in researching public companies and analysing financial data.
  • Company: Join Principal, a Fortune 500® firm at the forefront of financial services and technology.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, hybrid working, and a focus on personal and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in equity research and make impactful investment decisions.
  • Qualifications: University degree in relevant fields and strong analytical skills required.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career advancement.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

The Principal's Global Equity team is searching for a Graduate to join our Equity Research team as a Research Associate. You will gain broad exposure within Principal Global Investors, allowing you to develop a strong foundation in equity research, valuation, and portfolio strategy. This role is designed to develop your skills as an investment professional while providing hands-on experience across key areas of the equity research process.

Under the guidance of senior analysts and portfolio managers, you will contribute to the success of the investment team by conducting analytical work that supports informed, high-quality investment decisions in a specific sector.

What You’ll Do

  • Support senior analysts by researching public companies in an industry sector.
  • Analyse company, industry, and financial data to identify key performance drivers; build and maintain valuation models and forecasting tools to support investment decisions.
  • Contribute to investment research by synthesising market trends, macroeconomic factors, and company insights into clear recommendations and written reports.
  • Develop an understanding of how our investment teams make buy, sell, and hold recommendations.
  • Participate in discussions with analysts and portfolio managers about investment ideas and strategies.

Who You Are

  • University degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Mathematics, Computer Science or a relevant field or equivalent experience is required.
  • Knowledge of financial statement analysis and accounting.
  • Knowledge of financial modelling techniques, strong quantitative financial background, statistics and accounting.
  • Ability to gather and synthesise research effectively.
  • Strong business acumen, superior judgement and entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Must be a self-starter and demonstrate an understanding of economics and investment theories.

Your Experience with us

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, we’re imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services – and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. We support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being.

Who we are

Operating at the intersection of financial services and technology, Principal builds financial tools that help our customers live better lives. We take pride in being a purpose-led firm, motivated by our mission to make financial security accessible to all. A member of the Fortune 500®, our mission, integrity, and customer focus have made us a trusted leader for more than 140 years!

Location

Based in our London office. This role offers hybrid working, with four days a week in the office.

Graduate Research Associate employer: Principal Asset Management

At Principal, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Graduate Research Associate in our London office, you will benefit from comprehensive training and mentorship from seasoned professionals, alongside competitive benefits that prioritise your well-being. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, ensuring you can grow both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful investment decisions.
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Contact Detail:

Principal Asset Management Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Graduate Research Associate

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni from your university or connections in the finance industry. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and doing mock interviews with friends. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll showcase your skills and passion for equity research.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on market trends and recent news in the finance sector. Being knowledgeable will not only impress interviewers but also help you contribute meaningfully during discussions with analysts.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.

We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Research Associate

Equity Research
Valuation
Portfolio Strategy
Financial Statement Analysis
Financial Modelling Techniques
Quantitative Financial Background
Statistics
Research Synthesis
Business Acumen
Judgement
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Self-Starter
Understanding of Economics
Investment Theories

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Graduate Research Associate role. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects in finance, economics, or data analysis that showcase your analytical abilities.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about equity research and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of investment theories and financial modelling.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've used analytical skills in past experiences. Whether it's through academic projects or internships, demonstrate your ability to gather and synthesise data effectively.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!

How to prepare for a job interview at Principal Asset Management

✨Know Your Numbers

Brush up on your financial statement analysis and valuation models. Be ready to discuss how you would approach analysing a company's performance and what key metrics you would focus on. This shows that you understand the core of equity research.

✨Research the Sector

Dive deep into the specific industry sector you'll be working in. Familiarise yourself with current market trends, major players, and recent news. This will help you contribute meaningfully during discussions and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about their investment strategies and the team's approach to research. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.

✨Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit

Be prepared to share examples of when you've taken initiative or demonstrated strong judgement in past experiences. Highlighting your self-starter attitude will resonate well with the team, as they value proactive individuals who can contribute to their success.

Graduate Research Associate
Principal Asset Management
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