Break into Asset Management with Engineering/Technical Background
I was hoping someone could shed some insight into this. I have a technical degree from a top 15 school, but am starting to think that Asset Management is where I want to be. I currently hold an interest in quantitative portfolio management, but I think these kinds of jobs are much more rare or require a Masters, and I wouldn't be unhappy if I had a more traditional role.
Is a Masters a must for me to break in? (MBA/Masters) What about CFA? Is there anything I can do to improve my resume and gain experience?
it depends on the firm, but generally it should not be a problem for you. u have to explain them why u want to change field and to show that u have some economics knowledge. in my firm, the owner and several colleagues have purely technical background.
Engineering to Asset Management? (Originally Posted: 06/28/2015)
I studied engineering in college and worked for 3 years in manufacturing/project management at a top consumer products company. I'm starting MBA at MIT this fall and wanted to explore Asset Management as a possible career option. It seems that most successful candidates are coming from IB/PE though. Will AM firms take someone from engineering without any prior finance experience? What kind of prep should I focus on to have a shot at breaking in?
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The short answer is yes they will, but you will have to work very hard. You should also have a backup plan, i.e. consider recruiting for sell-side positions which would be a much easier (though still not "easy") transition.
In terms of prep, I would do the following:
1) Start networking with alums from your program that work in AM from day one, or even during this summer. You need to be very aggressive about this and move quickly.
2) Sign up for the level 1 CFA exam in December and begin studying.
3) Join your school's investment management and/or finance club and participate in stock pitch competitions. Other people from your school will also try to sign up. You need to be forceful and make sure you participate in at least one competition.
4) Take as many finance and accounting electives as you can. Read the McKinsey book on valuation. Read other investing books as have been discussed on here ad naseum over the years.
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