Portfolio analyst interview... position, difference, University, interview, research

scr879

Well, the job hunt has been tough so far, but this is the second on-campus interview I’ve been offered (the other being that financial consultant position I posted about).
This position definitely seems more interesting and relevant to me and what I’d like to get into (equity research).
What threw me off a bit in thinking about the upcoming interview is that this position is at the University of Chicago. I’m not sure how much of a difference that makes, but I’d appreciate any tips or insight for this entry-level position.
Here is the description:
Portfolio Analysts will be engaged in many facets of the investment process including setting of policy and strategy but will primarily be involved in the selection and monitoring of external investment specialists across asset classes. Analysts will support the analysis and management of University investments. Analysts will evaluate external investment specialists and prepare investment recommendation white papers on prospective investments. As a generalist, Analysts will undertake special projects as requested by the Directors. Analysts will assist with sourcing and due diligence of potential new investments; perform industry analysis to determine investment attractiveness of various investment strategies.
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Going over my preparation, I figure the interview will start with the personality/resume questions, and I’m also preparing to discuss the financial statements, a few of the common technical questions, and then one or two stock/investment pitches. Does this sound like a good outline, or is there something else I should be considering since this position is at a University and not a bank?

Roflnadal

To me this position sounds like my former role. I had an analyst or two that would help me select managers for various mandates [i.e. Canadian Mid Cap, US Value, Global Growth] etc., etc., So you’re probably best off emphasizing your excel skill set, your ability to use something like Zephry Style Advisor and your participation in the CFA program. There were some great L3 or L2 readings on manager search and selection and thats part of the due diligence process. But data scrubbing and other things are also needed.
Willy

Spongebob

the job is for a multi-manager fund. you’re probably going to be doing very little investment decision-making and a lot more manager decision-making.
is this for Russell in Tacoma?

firat

U of Chicago, you can probably get a free MBA out of that I would think

koba

Thanks, fellas.
Mr.Good.Guy Wrote:
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U of Chicago, you can probably get a free MBA out
of that I would think
ha, if true, that would certainly be nice!

simeezee

I have some parallels here…
I would focus on the due diligence part, expect questions on active vs. passive, be able to name some managers/shops you know and/or follow, excel would be good, presentation/writing skills…thats about it I guess. In my opinion, not a half-bad gig.

Walex

Hey, I was going to be having a phone screening interview for this position soon, and although I know it has been a long time since you made this post, I was wondering if you remembered what the phone interview was like and could give me some pointers? Appreciate it if you can help out, thanks!