Job Ref. No: JAML063
Role Purpose
The Portfolio Manager will be responsible for managing client investment portfolios to achieve optimal financial performance while aligning with clients' financial objectives and risk profiles. The role involves developing and implementing tailored investment strategies, conducting rigorous market analysis, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and client mandates. By leveraging advanced analytical tools and market insights, the Portfolio Manager will deliver customized investment solutions, enhance client satisfaction, and contribute to JAML's growth as a leader in the asset management industry.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy
Investment Strategy Development
Design and implement investment strategies tailored to client risk profiles, financial goals, and market conditions across asset classes (e.g., equities, fixed income, alternatives).
Collaborate with the Senior Portfolio Manager to align portfolio strategies with JAML's investment philosophy and performance targets, aiming for a minimum alpha of 2% above benchmark indices.
Identify opportunities for portfolio diversification and growth to enhance risk-adjusted returns.
Market Analysis & Research
Conduct in-depth research on securities, industries, and economic indicators to inform investment decisions and portfolio adjustments.
Monitor global and local economic trends, market cycles, and asset class performance, utilizing realtime data feeds (e.g., Bloomberg, Reuters) to optimize portfolio outcomes.
Provide actionable insights to clients and internal teams, contributing to proprietary research reports and investment theses.
Product Innovation
Support the product development team in designing innovative investment products, such as unit trusts, structured products, and alternative investments.
Contribute to the creation of offshore investment solutions to meet diverse client needs and market opportunities.
Client Engagement
Prepare and present clear, data-driven portfolio performance reports to clients, ensuring alignment with their objectives and market outlook.
Participate in client meetings to discuss investment strategies, performance, and recommended adjustments, fostering trust and satisfaction.
Operational
Portfolio Management
Oversee the day-to-day management of client portfolios, including asset allocation, rebalancing, and trade execution, ensuring liquidity and diversification.
Monitor portfolio performance against benchmarks (e.g., NSE 20, MSCI Emerging Markets), implementing corrective actions to maintain performance within agreed volatility thresholds (e.g., standard deviation below 10%).
Ensure accurate and timely reporting of portfolio performance to clients and internal stakeholders.
Risk Management
Assess and mitigate financial risks (e.g., market, credit, liquidity) within client portfolios using quantitative models and scenario analysis.
Implement hedging strategies and monitor concentration risks to ensure portfolio stability and compliance with exposure limits.
Maintain accurate risk documentation and support enterprise-wide risk protocols.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure all portfolio activities comply with regulatory guidelines (e.g., Capital Markets Authority), client mandates, and JAML's internal policies.
Maintain detailed records of investment decisions, transactions, and client communications for audit and reporting purposes.
Corporate Governance
Compliance
Stay updated on industry regulations, compliance requirements, and best practices.
Adhere to Kenyan laws, asset management industry policies, and JAML's internal guidelines.
Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
Risk Mitigation
Establish robust internal controls to mitigate operational, financial, and regulatory risks.
Proactively identify and address potential compliance or ethical issues in portfolio management.
Key Competencies and Skills:
Investment Expertise: Strong knowledge of portfolio construction, asset allocation, and investment strategies across equities, fixed income, and alternative assets.
Analytical Precision: Advanced skills in financial modelling, data analysis, and interpreting market trends using tools like Excel, Python, or Bloomberg.
Client-Centric Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills to present complex investment strategies clearly and build client trust.
Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying and mitigating portfolio risks through quantitative and qualitative methods.
Digital Proficiency: Familiarity with portfolio management software (e.g., Morningstar) and realtime market data platforms to enhance efficiency.
Ethical Integrity: Commitment to regulatory compliance, client confidentiality, and ethical investment practices.
Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams to deliver cohesive investment solutions.
Academic Qualifications and Relevant Experience
.Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field from a recognized institution.
Professional certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), FRM (Financial Risk Manager), or equivalent are highly desirable.
Advanced proficiency in financial modeling, portfolio management software (e.g., Bloomberg Terminal, Morningstar Direct, FactSet), and analytical tools (e.g., Excel, Python, R, VBA).
Demonstrated ability to leverage real-time market data platforms and quantitative tools for investment analysis and decision-making.
Completion of relevant training or coursework in investment management, risk analysis, or derivative instruments is an advantage.
Relevant Experience
Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in portfolio management, investment analysis, or a related role within the asset management, banking, or financial services industry, with at least 3-5 years focused on managing client portfolios.
Proven track record of managing client portfolios with assets under management (AUM) exceeding KES 500 million, consistently achieving performance targets such as positive alpha or top quartile returns relative to benchmarks (e.g., NSE 20, MSCI Emerging Markets).
In-depth knowledge of Kenyan, East African, and global financial markets, including equities, fixed income, alternative investments, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., Capital Markets Authority guidelines).
Demonstrated experience in utilizing advanced quantitative models for asset allocation, risk management, and portfolio optimization, including stress testing and scenario analysis.
Experience with alternative investments (e.g., private equity, real estate), unit trusts, structured products, or derivative instruments (e.g., options, futures) is a strong advantage.
Prior collaboration with risk management, compliance, and client-facing teams to deliver cohesive investment solutions, with a focus on client satisfaction and retention.