Some key job areas

The investment industry comprises a varied range of disciplines, all offering highly valued, transferable knowledge and skills - very useful in one of the fastest growing sectors of the Scottish economy.

Investment Analysis

I am responsible for uncovering investment opportunities in the equity markets for our client portfolios. I research companies within a particular sector of the economy which involves analysing company accounts, meeting with company management and researching the sector the company operates in to understand a firm's competitive advantages. The goal is to find companies who will deliver the best profit growth for our portfolios over a period of time. Once a company has been identified as a possible buy for our portfolios, it will be presented for approval by my investment committee where it will receive further scrutiny from my peers before a final decision is taken. Investment Analyst, UK Equity

Fund Management

As a trainee fund manager, I work with a more senior manager in determining which approved investments we place in client portfolios, how much of the portfolio will be placed in that investment and how long we intend to hold our investment in that company. In doing this I have to carefully balance the level of risk which our client is comfortable with and the level of returns they expect. Markets change on a daily basis and any piece of news may affecft one of our investments so I need to remain abreast of this and consider the implications for our portfolios. Trainee Fund Manager

Wealth Management

I work with wealthy individuals to help them achieve their financial objectives. I listen closely to client needs then formulate tailored solutions to manage and grow their portfolio. I have to be aware of a wide range of financial products and strategies as well as being mindful of tax and estate planning issues to ensure that wealth can be passed down through generations. Private Client Investment Manager

Client Management

My role is to provide clients with regular information on the value of their funds and the deals that we place on their behalf. I am in contact with clients on a face to face basis and via phone and email. I frequently present to clients on the performance of their investments and on current investment strategy and market developments. I am responsible for a range of specific client relationships and will be the first point of contact when clients have any questions or concerns. I need to be fully up to date with their portfolio, the markets and any issues that could affect the value of the client's investments with us. I meet frequently with fund managers and other investment staff to ensure I am prepared. Client Services Manager

Taxation

The investment funds that I deal with invest around the world and are subject to the tax laws of those countries in addition to UK tax laws. I need to understand the impact of overseas tax on different investments and record the tax that must be paid and the tax that can be recovered. These amounts form part of the overall value of the fund that is sold to clients, so I need to make sure the information is accurate. Senior Fund Analyst

Performance Measurement

I measure the performance of clients' investments and analyse the results to identify why they are above or below target. It is important to comply with the strict industry standards so that clients know that the calculation has been done consistently and so they can compare our performance against other investment managers. I also calculate and report on other measures including risk management within client portfolios. Performance Analyst

Global Custody

My role involves the safekeeping of stocks, shares and cash, and the trade and settlement of these assets in the countries in which our clients invest. Part of my job is to monitor and collect dividends and interest payments. I also maintain and reconcile the ownership records for various investments and report back to clients. Senior Fund Analyst

Fund Accounting

I produce statutory reports for investment trusts and unit trusts. My role involves forecasting company revenue and expenses. We are supported by fund administrators, who ensure we have the correct accounting updates and help with general administration. Fund Accountant

Settlements

When a deal is agreed between an investment manager and broker to buy or sell shares for example, I ensure that accurate instructions are passed to the global custodian so that the deal is settled on the correct date. I need a working knowledge of the myriad of global markets and their settlement practices. I constantly liaise with the broker, the dealer who executed the trade and the global custodian, often communicating across the world in different time zones. Team Leader, Settlements

Valuations

I establish the market prices of our clients' investments. In the case of unit trusts, I follow a strict timetable to ensure the price is published in the Financial Times the next day. As clients buy and sell units at prices that I calculate, it's essential that my calculations are accurate. Accounts Assistant, Pricing

Trustee/Depositary

My role is to monitor the actions of investment managers, global custodians and fund accountants on behalf of our customers. I track the actions of the investment managers through the service providers' books to ensure that client protection rules are met. In turn, we are accountable to the legal regulators in the UK and overseas. Operations Manager, Trustee/Depositary Services

Cash Management

My role is to ensure that the cash received from clients is recorded accurately on our systems. I reconcile multiple accounts, held in many different currencies and, if there are discrepancies, I investigate and resolve them. Fund Analyst

Corporate Actions

Corporate actions are transactions generated by companies in which our clients invest, including mergers, acquisitions, and stock exchange flotations. It is my responsibility to work out the details of the corporate action and inform the investment manager so that an appropriate decision can be made. I am then responsible for communicating with the global custodian to ensure all necessary changes are made to the valuation of the portfolio. Team Leader

There are also rewarding careers in key areas including Marketing, Sales, Legal, Compliance, Human Resources, IT and Project Management.