At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global asset allocation research and shape investment strategies for Vanguard's multi-asset funds.
- Company: Join Vanguard, a mission-driven company focused on transforming clients' financial lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model, professional development, and a collaborative culture.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with senior leadership and shape the future of investment strategies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on investment strategies and influence portfolio decisions at a leading firm.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in multi-asset investing with a PhD or graduate degree preferred.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Vanguard is looking for a senior leader to lead Vanguard’s global asset allocation research function within the Investment Strategy Group (ISG) – the firm’s multi-asset investments group responsible for shaping investment perspectives, portfolio methodologies, and advice frameworks. As the Head of Global Asset Allocation Research, you will own the research and models that underpin capital market assumptions, portfolio construction, and multi-asset solutions, directly influencing Vanguard’s funds, model portfolios, and retirement offerings. You will serve as a senior advisor to investment leadership, helping translate macroeconomic insights into long-term, investor-focused portfolio strategy.
What you will do
- Lead Vanguard’s strategic and dynamic asset allocation research agenda, including translating the firm’s capital market assumptions into portfolio strategies.
- Translate macro, valuation, and market insights into evidence-based portfolio positioning aligned with Vanguard’s long-term investment philosophy.
- Lead portfolio construction frameworks for multi-asset funds, model portfolios, retirement, and advice solutions.
- Oversee our proprietary Vanguard Asset Allocation Model and related tools to evaluate risk/return trade-offs and ensure scalable, consistent application across client segments.
- Shape Vanguard’s position about the role of asset classes in portfolios, asset allocation views, and flagship research for internal and external audiences.
- Provide differentiated perspectives on portfolio strategies and represent Vanguard views with clients, industry forums, and in the press.
- Advise senior leadership on portfolio positioning, rebalancing, risk scenarios, and alignment between research, methodology, and implementation.
- Partner with portfolio management, advice, and product teams to inform fund management, product design, model portfolios, and retirement solutions.
- Set ISG’s research agenda, standards, and priorities while integrating economics, behavioral research, portfolio construction, modeling, and analytics.
What it will take
- 10+ years’ research experience in multi-asset investing, asset allocation, or macro strategy. PhD or graduate degree preferred.
- Deep expertise across global asset classes and portfolio construction research frameworks.
- Proven experience with research publications, public speaking, and media.
- Track record influencing CIOs, investment committees, and portfolio decisions.
Special Factors
Sponsorship: Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.
About Vanguard
At Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission. To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through products and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.
How We Work
Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Global Asset Allocation Research (London)
✨Get Involved in Finance Communities
Join investment and asset management forums or local finance meetups. Engaging with professionals in these circles can not only help you learn the ropes but also put you in touch with potential employers like Vanguard, who often scout for talent at such events.
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✨Engage with Recruitment Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Global Asset Allocation Research (London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:In asset management, it's all about the numbers! Make sure your CV showcases your analytical skills, particularly any experience with financial modelling or quantitative analysis. Employers like Vanguard want to see how you can dissect data and turn it into actionable insights, so don't hold back on your achievements!
Show Off Your Relevant Qualifications:Having the right qualifications can be a game changer in investment roles. If you've got a degree in finance, economics, or a related field, flaunt it! Also, if you have any certifications like CFA or CAIA, mention those too. It’ll help demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field to Vanguard.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Reflect Passion for Investment:Your cover letter is your chance to express your enthusiasm for the investment world. Share why you're drawn to asset management and your understanding of market trends. The hiring team at Vanguard will be keen to see that passion and how you keep up with industry news and developments.
Quantify Your Achievements:Don’t just tell them what you did - show them! When detailing your previous experience, include quantifiable achievements to illustrate your impact. Whether it’s percentage growth on a portfolio or cost savings in a project, these figures will help your application stand out to Vanguard. Numbers speak louder than words!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vanguard
✨Brush Up on Financial Modelling
For a role in investment asset management, being well-versed in financial modelling is crucial. Make sure you can articulate your experience with tools like Excel or any specialised software you've used. Maybe even prepare a couple of examples of financial models you've built or analysed.
✨Know Your Investment Strategies
Expect questions around different investment strategies and how you would apply them in various market scenarios. Get ready to discuss current market trends and how they impact portfolio management. This shows you're not just about the theory but also keeping an eye on real-world applications.
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Since this is a full-time role, companies like Vanguard want to see your analytical thinking in action. Prepare to solve case studies or tackle some numerical puzzles during the interview. Practicing these types of questions will boost your confidence and show off your skills.
✨Discuss Your Long-Term Career Goals
As you’re applying for a full-time position, the interviewers will be interested in your commitment to the field. Be ready to discuss how this role fits into your long-term career plans in asset management. This shows you're not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely interested in growing withVanguard.
