Principal, Portfolio Construction

Job title: Principal, Portfolio Construction

Job description: Why join us?

Are you looking to join a dynamic pension plan that embodies the strong values of its 500,000 members and is an industry leading global investor? If so, we would love to tell you our story.

At OMERS we put our people first and are proud to embrace the diversity of thought and leadership that comes from having locations in Toronto, London, New York, Singapore, Sydney and other major cities across North America and Europe. Our culture is truly one of a kind. We get stuff done, and have fun doing it! We take great pride in contributing to the communities where we live with an ever-constant eye to the global investment markets.

Under the leadership of the Chief Investment Officer, the Total Portfolio Management Group is a newly formed team, providing a holistic lens across the OMERS investment portfolio, with responsibility for asset allocation, currency liquidity management and Economic Research at the total portfolio level. The Total Portfolio Management group works closely with the broader investment teams and partners to integrate best-in-class thinking on portfolio construction and support the continued evolution of the investment strategy.

As a key member of the group, the Principal, Portfolio Construction will make significant contributions to the design and implementation of Total Portfolio Management strategy. This candidate will conduct research and analysis to guide top down capital allocation as well as portfolio asset, geography, sector and risk factor exposures. He/she will support the build-up of a top down portfolio construction framework that fosters the achievement of overall portfolio investment return and risk targets.

The right person for this role demonstrates thought leadership and brings outstanding quantitative skills, practical experience and sound judgment.

As a member of this team, you will be responsible for:

• Developing models, completing analysis and generating insights to support recommendations on overall portfolio asset, geography, sector and risk factor allocations, while considering complementary or competing priorities such as return targets, liquidity, safety
• Employing data methods, visualization and analytics to further understanding and formulate views regarding OMERS overall portfolio characteristics, driving portfolio construction improvements where possible
• Undertaking research into secular and thematic trends, drivers of change and growth opportunities which can support overall portfolio performance over the medium to long term
• Fostering relationships with investment teams and business partners to support the overall evolution of the long-term investment strategy
• Mentoring less experienced members of the team, sharing information, knowledge and insight to support the build-up of a best in class portfolio construction team
• Collaborating, sharing information and insights across investment teams to deliver the best outcomes for the pension plan
• Communication of Total Portfolio Management conclusions, both upwards to the CIO and Senior Executive Team, and throughout the organization, in an effective manner, influencing investment processes and decisions as appropriate

To succeed in this role, you bring:

• 8+ years of industry experience gained in top-down portfolio construction/portfolio management/capital markets/risk management, preferably at a Pension Fund, Insurance company or Asset Management firm. Open to considering applicants with more experience at the Director level
• An academic background in Math, Statistics, Finance, Engineering, Computer Science or related field. CFA designation is an asset
• Strong multi-asset class knowledge. Direct experience with capital markets or other investments is preferred
• Exceptional analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to generate insights and think holistically at a portfolio level
• Demonstrated experience in delivering cross-departmental projects/solutions working with multiple stakeholders and partners
• Exceptional ability to communicate potentially complex ideas and results simply and effectively, to a diverse range of stakeholders
• A high attention to detail that complements your ability to see the big picture
• Humility and self-awareness. You value feedback, invite and integrate different perspectives
• Drive, self-motivation and the ability to take initiative to drive impact and results
• A collaborative mindset and strong relationship management skills
• The ability to prioritize competing tasks while delivering high-quality products within deadlines
• Proven ability to establish team trust and foster an inclusive culture. Working style flexibility that supports many individuals with different skills, experiences, and perspectives
• A consistent, can do attitude and never lose sight of the mission to successfully build our business to fulfill the OMERS pension promise

Our story:

Founded in 1962, OMERS is one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans, with $105 billion in net assets as at December 31, 2020. OMERS is a jointly-sponsored pension plan, with 1,000 participating employers ranging from large cities to local agencies, and over half a million active, deferred and retired members. OMERS members include union and non-union employees of municipalities, school boards, local boards, transit systems, electrical utilities, emergency services and children’s aid societies across Ontario. Contributions to the Plan are funded equally by members and employers. OMERS teams work in Toronto, London, New York, Amsterdam, Luxembourg, Singapore, Sydney and other major cities across North America and Europe – serving members and employers and originating and managing a diversified portfolio of high-quality investments in public markets, private equity, infrastructure and real estate.

OMERS is committed to having a workforce that reflects the communities in which we live and work. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a barrier-free recruitment and selection process. At OMERS inclusion and diversity means belonging. How we create a sense of belonging is through our employees and our vast network of Employee Resource Groups. Whether you are passionate about gender, pride, or visible minorities, we have groups that are focused on making a difference in all of our lives.

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