Job Searching for Fund Professionals

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Introduction

Like all careers, fund executives need a professional CV. You are judged by your presentation, your technical/product knowledge and the quality of the Funds Companies that you have worked for. Make sure that your CV reflects this.

Agencies who specialise in Fund Professionals

  • The Panel
  • Robert Walters
  • FK International
  • Premier
  • Sigmar

Tailoring your CV

  • Keep it to three pages
  • Make sure to include your key responsibilities and achievements in each role.
  • List the software packages used
  • List specific funds types, your client base, staff management experience and project work.
  • Provide links to the websites of companies you have worked for
  • In this market, make sure your CV is tailored to the specific job you are applying for and it highlights areas listed on the job spec. A "one CV fits all" doesn't work in this market.

What do employers look for in Fund Professionals?

  • A solid progressive career
  • Primary degree (post graduate or accountancy qualification is very advantageous)
  • Additional study
  • Specialist software i.e. Invest one, Advent Geneva etc
  • Steady career progression within previous employers
  • Professionalism and career focus
  • Stay informed on the business scene - read the business pages of the Irish Times, Sunday Business Post and FT
  • Participate in industry associations - DFIA committee member
  • Display personal development and a positive attitude
  • Strong presentation skills, ability to discuss their CV succinctly and be able to give relevant examples to highlight their experience.

What do employers avoid?

  • Patchy careers - lots of jobs showing no career progress
  • Poorly presented CVs
  • Lack of consistency in role progression

Questions to ask at interview

  • Key objectives for the role and expectation of the individual hired
  • Opportunities for career progression within the role
  • Project planned and strategic plan for the division/company
  • IT Systems used

Enhancing your CV

  • Membership of professional bodies
  • Individual achievements
  • Sports clubs
  • Career goals
  • IT courses
  • Soft skills - presentation/negotiation/etc

Recession Resistant Sectors

Using your spare time productively

  • Voluntary groups needing assistance
  • Write an article on some relevant area
  • Further education

Good websites for Funds Professionals

Job searches - where you can set up alerts

For industry information