Imperial College London MSc Finance Job Prospects

Hey WSO Fellows,

I am an incoming MSc Finance student at ICL and I would appreciate your insights on my prospects of entering Asset Management (GSAM, JPM AM, MS, etc), or ideally, Hedge Funds (particularly global macro-focused firms like Braven Howard, Man Group, Millennium, etc) in London.

I bring 2 years of experience in Asset Management, having worked at a firm with €8B AUM in Portugal. My role involved product development and design, focusing on developing new investment strategies and launching funds. With exposure to 2 Long/Short Equity Market Neutral Funds, I am well-acquainted with alternatives and hedge funds. Additionally, I completed a summer internship in M&A, though not at a bank, but at a company heavily involved in M&A activities. Furthermore, I gained exposure through a summer internship in sales and trading at a bank in Mozambique.

My academic background includes a BSc in Economics from Portugal’s premier university. I have also passed the CFA Level 1 exam and am currently enrolled for the CFA Level 2. I consider myself well-versed in Finance, Markets, Macro, Statistics, and particularly derivatives. In addition to my professional and academic qualifications, I am fluent in both Portuguese and English, and I have a beginner-level proficiency in Spanish. Moreover, I possess advanced skills in Python!

I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on my chances and any suggestions you may have.

Thank you!

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your background and experience position you strongly for a career in Asset Management or Hedge Funds in London, especially with your specific interest in global macro-focused firms. Here are several points to consider:

  1. Asset Management Experience: Your 2 years of experience in Asset Management, particularly in a firm managing €8B AUM, is significant. Your involvement in product development and design, as well as your exposure to Long/Short Equity Market Neutral Funds, aligns well with the expectations of both asset management firms and hedge funds.

  2. M&A and Sales & Trading Internships: Although your M&A experience wasn't in a bank, it still provides valuable exposure to financial transactions and strategic considerations. Your internship in sales and trading, even if it was in Mozambique, adds to your understanding of markets, which is crucial for roles in Asset Management and Hedge Funds.

  3. Academic Credentials and CFA: Holding a BSc in Economics from Portugal’s premier university and passing the CFA Level 1 exam (with enrollment for Level 2) showcases your strong foundation in finance and dedication to furthering your expertise. The CFA Charter is highly regarded in the investment management industry.

  4. Technical Skills: Your advanced skills in Python are a significant asset, especially in today's data-driven finance environment. The ability to analyze data, automate tasks, and develop quantitative models is highly valued in Asset Management and Hedge Funds.

  5. Language Skills: Being fluent in Portuguese and English, with beginner-level proficiency in Spanish, enhances your profile, especially for firms with a global presence or those looking to expand in Portuguese-speaking countries or regions.

  6. Networking and WSO Academy: Consider leveraging the WSO Networking Guide to connect with professionals in your target firms. Additionally, the WSO Academy offers courses that could further refine your skills and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate.

  7. Tailor Your Application: Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements in your CV and cover letter. Tailor them to the specific roles and firms you're targeting, emphasizing your asset management experience, technical skills, and academic credentials.

Given your background, you have a strong foundation to pursue opportunities in Asset Management and Hedge Funds in London. Focus on networking, continue building your skills, and tailor your applications to your target roles. Your unique combination of experience, skills, and qualifications makes you a compelling candidate for the positions you're interested in.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/admitted-to-imperial-college-business-school-msc-finance-and-lse-msc-finance-for-2019?customgpt=1, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs LSE MSc Accounting and Finance, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs MSc Finance

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