Asset Transitions Coordinator

• Graduate Programme
• September 2012 start
• London

Mercer Sentinel® is part of Mercer which is a leading global provider of investment consulting services.  Mercer offer customised guidance at every stage of the investment decision, risk management and investment monitoring process.  We have been dedicated to meeting the needs of clients for more than 30 years, and work with the fiduciaries of pension funds, foundations, endowments and other investors in some 35 countries.  The team is a specialist global group of 50+ full time staff (20 in Europe) focussed on consulting to clients on all aspects of investment operations and their governance.  This includes consulting on custody, securities lending and transitions. Our four main operating hubs are London, Chicago, Sydney and Singapore.
 
Within the European Sentinel team we have 8 staff responsible for implementing all the asset transitions undertaken by Mercer on behalf of clients. Asset transitions occur when a client wishes to replace an investment manager or change the investment strategy of a pension scheme.  The role is very much focused on project management and problem solving skills.

To aid your professional development you will study either to be an actuary (through the exams run by the Institute/Faculty of Actuaries) or to be a Chartered Financial Analyst ("CFA") charterholder (through the exams run by the CFA Institute).  In addition you will study for the Investment Management Certificate ("IMC").  Mercer provides a comprehensive study package to support you in all your studies.
 
Key duties will include:

• Working with asset managers to devise the most suitable transition strategy for a client
• Sending a detailed information request to the legacy and target managers about their investment processes
• Liaising with the legacy and target managers to ascertain the most appropriate transfer method and schedule
• Conducting a cost analysis and examination of out of market exposure implications
• Drafting and agreeing instruction letters with the various parties involved in a transition
• Drafting a transition strategy document for the client which will include costs of the transition
• Implementing and monitoring the transition strategy agreed with the client
• Preparing a post transition report setting out details of the activities undertaken
• Excellent team working, project management and problem solving skills to contributing to intellectual capital

Key skills and qualifications:

• A minimum of 300 UCAS points, A level maths at grade B or above with a minimum 2:1 honours degree expected or obtained in a numerical or semi- numerical degree(equivalent qualifications are accepted)
• An interest in financial markets and conditions is essential
• Self motivated, with an eagerness to learn and to keep up to date with the investment industry, market conditions etc.
• Ability to work well as part of a team, with strong communication skills
• Ability to work well under pressure, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks
• Takes ownership for work, always ensuring standards and deadlines are met and keeping others informed and up-to-date