Quantitative Research Operations Analyst

Responsibilities

• Learn and further document existing quantitative financial processes, including strategic asset allocation, capital market assumptions, performance attribution, target date glide path development, and a simulation-based optimization framework for portfolio construction with guaranteed retirement income products.
• Spearhead the operation of these processes to update ongoing internal and client deliverables and further enhance and improve these processes as business needs dictate.
• Aid in the development of new quantitative financial processes to support strategic asset allocation, capital market assumption, performance attribution, and glide path construction initiatives, using statistical analysis, risk management techniques and simulation methods.
• Meet with investment professionals within the Mesirow Fiduciary Solutions division to interpret analysis results and recommend changes in investment policy in response to the results.
• Apply complex financial theory to help provide solutions to real-world problems.

Requirements

• An advanced degree in finance, economics, mathematics, statistics, financial engineering, or a related field is preferred, but B.S. holders with the required professional experience will be considered.
• CFA charter holder or progress toward the CFA preferred.
• 1-3 years of professional experience in quantitative financial research or a related field (asset allocation, capital market assumptions development, quantitative analysis, financial engineering, investment research) within the financial services industry is required.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated exceptional attention to detail is paramount.
• Significant programming experience, preferably in R, and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel are required. MATLAB experience is a plus.
• Knowledge and experience in strategic asset allocation, capital market assumption development, optimization methods, statistical/econometric analysis and modeling and Monte Carlo simulation are desirable.
• Knowledge of annuity products is a plus.
• Ability to convert academic research concepts into practical solutions for use by other members of the team.
• Ability to communicate complex financial concepts effectively to internal clients and previous internal client-facing experience desired.
• Ability to work independently and interact with all levels within the organization.
• Superior skills in organization, time management, prioritization, research and self-motivation.
• Desire to grow and thrive in a highly entrepreneurial environment.

Benefits

The anticipated hiring base salary for the role will be between $90,000 and $180,000 per year. However, base pay if hired will be determined on an individualized basis and is only part of the total compensation package, which also provides the opportunity for a bonus and the Mesirow benefit program.