Distribution Arm in Asset Management

Hi all,
I currently sit in the distribution channel at a fairly big sized AM firm - roughly around $900bn AUM. I work closely with the relations team and the retail front of the firm. I love what I do and get the opportunity to learn all about the sales side of things at an asset management firm whether that be institutional or retail sales. My question for you guys is, how lucrative is going down the path in distribution at an AM is and if anyone has an insight as to what the career development looks like.

 

Hey there!

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the distribution side of Asset Management can be quite rewarding. There are two primary silos in Asset Management: managing money and distributing that money management. In the distribution side, you'll see a breakdown between institutional, private wealth management (PWM), and Retail. This could involve working with large pension funds, corporations, endowments, family offices, or supporting brokers.

While some might overlook sales jobs, a good wholesaler supporting brokers can make 7 figures (I know many of them) and 500k is not uncommon. So, it can be quite lucrative.

As for career development, it can vary. However, it's important to note that success in this role is tied directly to the performance of the fund. The future of active management is uncertain, and if the compression in fees continues, it could potentially decrease the salary.

Also, keep in mind that this role might require constant travel, which can get tough once kids/family come into the picture. But on the bright side, you get to interact with some of the brightest investment managers and learn from the best.

Remember, every path has its pros and cons. It's all about finding what suits you best and where you can see yourself in the long run. Hope this helps!

Sources: Fork in the road: Career path in Asset Management, Asset Management Sales - SA and Exit Options, Asset Management as a long-term career?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

All I can say, is when your in a sales role, you can make a lot of money if you can sell because you'll be largely paid on commission, and it's hard to say exactly how much, because it depends who you're working for, what you're selling, and who your clients are. Would it be lucrative? Generally speaking yes.  Someone who can run a distribution team and make it rain, not just a rank and file salesman, could make 7 figures. 

 
Most Helpful

Explicabo exercitationem atque suscipit quasi numquam maxime voluptas eos. Quia voluptatem consequuntur voluptatem maxime. Et sint eveniet alias molestiae dolorem dolorem. Voluptas ut eum inventore omnis.

Nostrum debitis modi rerum culpa tempore ullam in. Qui beatae deleniti labore aut et beatae. Quam quis voluptatem autem. Soluta assumenda aut corporis nihil doloribus est. Nihil quidem sed explicabo fugiat. Placeat error et maxime sit.

Ut provident consequatur consectetur tempora. Ea architecto voluptatem culpa voluptatum. Veniam repellendus non reprehenderit soluta. Recusandae dolor magni voluptas alias dolores deserunt placeat. Ea aliquid tenetur esse nemo esse qui. Molestias est ea omnis est a iusto tenetur.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. New 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 04 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (19) $385
  • Associates (88) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (67) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (146) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
numi's picture
numi
98.8
10
Kenny_Powers_CFA's picture
Kenny_Powers_CFA
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”