At a Glance
- Tasks: Support research and monitoring of investment portfolios across public markets.
- Company: Join Railpen, a leader in pension fund management with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, private medical insurance, and a rewarding bonus plan.
- Other info: Hybrid working, excellent career growth, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make an impact in finance while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Strong interest in finance, analytical skills, and coding proficiency preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our Investment Credit and Implementation team as a Junior Research Analyst, based in London on a permanent basis (hybrid working).
Who we are
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK's largest and longest established pension funds. Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
The role
As a Junior Research Analyst, you will support the research and ongoing monitoring of both internally and externally managed portfolios across Public Markets pooled funds. The role plays an important part in ensuring that Railpen’s investment execution across multiple asset classes is aligned with our clients’ long‑term objectives. Reporting to the Head of Credit and Manager Implementation, you will contribute to the delivery of Railpen’s investment strategy by supporting portfolio oversight, market analysis, and manager research activities. You will work to monitor performance, risk and mandate compliance across public markets and private debt strategies, following the established Public Markets monitoring framework. A key aspect of the role will involve conducting financial market research and analysis to help maintain forward‑looking views on market trends. You will contribute insights in investment forums and support the development of portfolio positioning where appropriate. You will also assist in external manager research and selection processes, including supporting onboarding activity in collaboration with colleagues across the business. The role also offers the opportunity to develop and utilise technical skills, including building tools and systems to support financial market monitoring and portfolio analytics using platforms such as Bloomberg, Macrobond, and other data providers.
The person
We are looking for a motivated and intellectually curious individual with a strong interest in financial markets and investment management. You will bring a solid academic foundation, ideally in a relevant discipline such as finance, economics, mathematics or a related field, alongside a desire to develop your career within a long‑term, client‑focused investment organisation. You will demonstrate strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends and form considered views. An interest in understanding how financial markets operate, and how different asset classes contribute to portfolio construction, will be important. You will be proactive in building your knowledge of market developments and keen to contribute insights in a collaborative team environment. We are ideally looking for somebody who is proficient in coding, AI and knowledge of Bloomberg would be advantageous. Attention to detail and a structured approach to work are essential, particularly when supporting portfolio monitoring and ensuring that performance, risk and mandate considerations are clearly understood. You should be comfortable working with data and have an interest in developing your technical skills, including the use of tools such as Excel and financial data platforms such as Bloomberg or Macrobond. You will also demonstrate strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate your analysis both verbally and in writing to a range of stakeholders. A collaborative and adaptable approach will be key, as you will work closely with colleagues across investment teams and wider business functions, particularly when supporting external manager research and onboarding. Above all, you will be someone who is keen to learn, open to new ideas and committed to delivering high-quality work that supports strong client outcomes. Progress towards a relevant professional qualification, such as the CFA, would be advantageous or something you are willing to pursue as part of your ongoing development.
What we can offer you
- A competitive salary (depending on experience)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous annual bonus plan
- Membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Benefit arrangement under which you get a pension for life and a lump sum when you retire, based on your length of service and pay
- 4x Life Assurance cover
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee assistance programme
- Health cash plan
Lifestyle
- We support hybrid and flexible working along with very generous family leave including 12 months full pay maternity leave and 6 months full pay paternity leave
- Buy and sell holidays
- Give as you earn scheme
- Flexible half days leave
- Electric vehicle leasing
- Cycle to work scheme
Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Junior Research Analyst - Hybrid Finance & Market Insights in London employer: Railpen
Railpen is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in London where you can grow your career as a Junior Research Analyst. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive leave policies, and a focus on work-life balance through hybrid working options, Railpen fosters a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the financial futures of our members while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and technical skill enhancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Research Analyst - Hybrid Finance & Market Insights in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance and investment sectors, especially those who work at Railpen or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your market knowledge. Stay updated on current trends and be ready to discuss how they impact investment strategies. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also passionate about the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've interpreted data or conducted research in the past. Whether it's a project from uni or a personal interest, demonstrating your ability to analyse and draw conclusions is key.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Railpen.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Research Analyst - Hybrid Finance & Market Insights in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Research Analyst role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with our focus on financial markets and investment management. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for finance and your eagerness to learn. Let us know why you're excited about joining Railpen and how you can help us achieve our long-term objectives.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data interpretation, make sure to showcase your analytical skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've used data to identify trends or make informed decisions in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Railpen
✨Know Your Financial Markets
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of financial markets and investment management. Be prepared to discuss recent trends and how they might impact portfolio construction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to demonstrate your analytical abilities during the interview. Prepare examples of how you've interpreted data or identified trends in past experiences. This will highlight your capability to contribute to market analysis and portfolio oversight.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Since the role involves using platforms like Bloomberg and Macrobond, make sure you have a basic understanding of these tools. If possible, mention any experience you have with them or similar software, as this will show you're proactive and technically inclined.
✨Communicate Clearly and Collaboratively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, both verbally and in writing. During the interview, focus on how you can work collaboratively with teams. Highlight any past experiences where you contributed insights in a team setting, as this aligns with the company's values.
