Director, Research and Portfolio Strategy

Location

Position based at our headquarters in State College, Pennsylvania. Relocation assistance is not provided, and remote work is not available for this role.

What Are We Looking For

We seek a candidate who is genuinely passionate about investing and prefers managing client capital over relying on automated models. This team member will join our investment committee, so prior experience in investment allocation decisions is essential, ideally within an RIA setting, with demonstrable examples of overweighting and underweighting asset classes such as growth versus value, large versus small cap, international versus domestic equity, and equity versus fixed income. Investment ideas are generated both independently and with the team, and all members are encouraged to challenge and defend any investment thesis.

What Are You Looking For

As a dedicated analyst with a talent for asset allocation decisions, you aim to have a larger voice in portfolio management and influence across a range of investment strategies. You want to be involved in portfolio construction decisions and prefer working on a small, focused team that strives to make a meaningful difference in clients’ financial futures.

Position Summary

The Director, Research and Portfolio Strategy will lead the investment research initiatives within our Investment Strategy team and report to the CEO. This group works alongside the Chief Market Strategist, conducting thorough due diligence on mutual funds, ETFs, Private Alts, SMAs, and other vehicles used across client accounts, and producing detailed fundamental research to shape asset allocation across our broad set of strategies. As a member of the Investment Committee, this role requires a passion for investing and markets with a strong focus on research, portfolio allocation and manager due diligence. The ability to clearly communicate complex investment concepts to varied audiences is essential.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct allocation research for dynamic and strategic portfolio positioning, covering asset classes, segments, and sectors
• Perform investment research and due diligence on mutual funds, ETFs, Private Alts, SMAs, and related vehicles
• Prepare commentaries and present investment theses
• Serve as a member of the Investment Committee
• Manage a team of analysts
• Collaborate with senior management and other Investment Strategy team members to deliver exceptional service to advisors nationwide
• Act as a liaison and product expert for clients (financial advisors)
• Communicate investment ideas and concepts at different levels of sophistication
• Lead or participate in investment and operational projects as needed

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Series 65 registration or successful completion within 90 days of hire
• 7+ years of experience in an investment analyst role
• Experience performing manager due diligence
• Exposure to multi-asset class allocation decision making
• Preferably within an RIA
• Must have a relevant industry designation (CFA, CMT, CIPM, FRM, etc.)
• Experience leading a team and developing analysts
• Ability to write commentaries and present investment themes in written format
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel
• Organizational skills and a track record of meeting deadlines
• Demonstrated ownership of tasks and projects
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through
• High degree of professionalism and work ethic
• Strong listening and communication skills
• Can do attitude and high energy

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience
• Experience working with financial advisors or RIAs
• Knowledge of some or all of the following a plus: Bloomberg, Morningstar DAS, Morningstar Direct, Fidelity WealthScape, Schwab Advisor Center, FactSet, Black Diamond

Company

Vicus Capital is an independent investment management firm with over $3 billion in AUM headquartered in State College, Pennsylvania. As a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), we develop innovative investment strategies and cutting-edge tools for financial advisors nationwide, delivering elite service and a standout experience to both advisors and their clients. We take pride in fostering a family atmosphere and a rewarding work environment for all employees. Our staff are entrusted to own their work, and we do not practice micro-management. Evolving opportunities and advancement are encouraged.

Benefits

This is a full-time salaried position with an incentive compensation package. A comprehensive benefits package includes health insurance, dental and vision coverage, group life insurance, short term disability, and a 401(k) plan with safe harbor employer contributions.

Salary/Compensation: $115,000 - $150,000 per year