Investment Analyst

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INVESTMENT ANALYST

The University of Southern California (USC) is one of the world's leading private research universities. An anchor institution in Los Angeles, a global center for arts, technology and international business, USC's diverse curricular offerings provide extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration with leading researchers in highly advanced learning environments.

Department Overview

Through the Chief Investment Officer, the Investment Office team is responsible for managing the USC's Endowment in accordance with the policies set forth by the Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees. The Endowment exists to support the academic mission of the University for current and future students. While the management of the Endowment is the primary responsibility of the Investment Office, it is also involved in the management of the university's defined benefit pension plan and charitable trust programs.

The Position

This position offers the opportunity to be a part of an experienced and thoughtful investment team directly involved in the management of a diverse investment portfolio. The Investment Analyst will be a key member of the Investment Office and will help support senior team members in the evaluation of new investment opportunities. The role is a unique opportunity for early‑career investment professionals to gain experience working across asset classes (including hedge funds, global equities, fixed income, private equity, venture capital and real assets) and interacting with some of the world's premier investment managers. The position is structured as a two‑year program with the possibility of extension.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Works closely with the investment team in all aspects of the investment process, including meeting with investment managers and evaluating opportunities both qualitatively and quantitatively.
  • Assists in monitoring existing managers on an on‑going basis through assessing performance and investment reports, and dialogue with investment managers.
  • Participates in and documents meetings and conference calls with investment managers.
  • Provides research, analytical, and organizational support for senior members of the team.
  • Prepares ad hoc research projects in collaboration with members of the investment team.
  • Ensures deliverables are prepared, reviewed and sent in a timely and accurate basis.
  • Helps to maintain and update internal databases and analytical tools.
  • Assists with the preparation of quarterly Investment Committee meeting materials.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or its equivalent required, preferably in accounting, finance, economics, or a quantitative field, plus demonstrated strong academic performance.
  • One to three years' experience is preferred.
  • Advanced Excel skills; experience with Bloomberg, Style Advisor or Caissa is a plus.
  • Must be detail oriented with strong analytical capabilities and critical thinking skills.
  • The ability to manage multiple competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work both autonomously and collaboratively within a small close‑knit team.
  • Candidates will demonstrate a strong work ethic and deep intellectual curiosity.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • CFA or CFA candidate preferred.

Benefits

To support faculty and staff well‑being, USC provides benefits‑eligible employees with a broad range of benefits and perks to help protect their and their dependents' health, wealth, and future. These benefits are available as part of the overall compensation and total rewards package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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