A few questions: Pivoting from WM to HF

Hey everyone - Please disregard the username, I'm actually on this forum because I'm looking to switch career paths.

Long story short: Retail wealth management is not for me. I'm not a natural salesperson and I'm exhausted of explaining the benefits of an IRA to plumbers and electricians. I've set my sights on a career in HFs as I love a fast-paced work environment and the rigor of thorough due diligence. All of that said, I've had no luck in finding any traction in my search. Most recruiters will only reach out for other advisor/sales opportunities. 

As a means of picking up new skills and optimizing my candidacy, I'm taking night classes for a certification in Data Science & Visualization. I'd be curious to know if anyone in this forum would be able to answer the following questions:


1) Is pursuing data science the right path? Or would a CFA be more appropriate?

2) Will I be less competitive relative to candidates with a deeper background in data science and coding? Or, would my licensing and experience in finance give me an advantage?

3) What are some books/reading materials that would help me get a better clue of what funds are looking for when hiring data analysts/scientists?

4) Anything else I should know if I want to make this career switch?


I appreciate any and all responses! Cheers.


  • FP
 
Most Helpful

stop trying to fit this generalized idea of what you think a hedge fund wants. i get the sense you want to be a l/s equities guy, so don't mean to be harsh but nobody is going to give a f*ck about your data visualization certificate. figure out exactly what kinda of investing you want to be doing. try really hard to discover your own alpha/niche. fall in love with it and get good at it. then you'll get a job doing that. that guy gets hired 9/10. 

 

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