Director, Research and Portfolio Strategy

Location and work arrangement

The position is based at our headquarters in State College, Pennsylvania 16801. Relocation assistance is not provided, and remote work is not available for this role.

Who we are looking for

We seek a candidate with a genuine passion for investing and a commitment to managing money for clients rather than relying on models alone. This role will join our investment committee, so prior experience in investment allocation decisions is essential, preferably within an RIA environment. Candidates should be able to cite examples of overweighting and underweighting asset classes such as growth versus value, large cap versus small cap, international versus domestic equity, and equity versus fixed income. Investment ideas are generated both independently and collaboratively, with a culture that encourages challenging and defending investment theses.

What you are seeking

As a focused analyst with a talent for asset allocation decisions, you aim to have a larger voice in portfolio management and influence across multiple investment strategies. You want to participate actively in portfolio construction discussions and contribute as part of a small, focused team dedicated to helping individual clients achieve their financial futures.

Position summary

The Director, Research and Portfolio Strategy will lead the investment research efforts of our Investment Strategy team and will report to the CEO. This team collaborates with the Chief Market Strategist to conduct thorough due diligence on mutual funds, ETFs, Private Alts, SMAs, and other investment vehicles used across client accounts, along with generating detailed fundamental research to inform asset allocation across a broad range of strategies. As a member of the Investment Committee, this individual should possess a strong passion for investing and markets, with a keen interest in research, portfolio allocation and construction, and manager/strategist 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 across asset classes, segments, and sectors
• Perform investment research and due diligence on mutual funds, ETFs, Private Alts, SMAs, and related vehicles
• Write commentaries and present investment theses
• Serve as a member of the Investment Committee
• Manage a team of analysts
• Collaborate with senior management and fellow Investment Strategy team members to deliver top-tier service to advisors nationwide
• Act as a liaison and product expert for clients (financial advisors)
• Communicate investment ideas and concepts at varying levels of sophistication
• Lead and 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 is a plus: Bloomberg, Morningstar DAS, Morningstar Direct, Fidelity WealthScape, Schwab Advisor Center, FactSet, Black Diamond

About Vicus Capital

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 design innovative investment strategies and advanced tools for financial advisors nationwide, delivering elite service and a standout experience for advisors and their clients. We value a family atmosphere and a fulfilling work environment. Our employees are trusted to take ownership of their work, and micro-management is not part of our culture. Ongoing opportunities for growth and advancement are encouraged.

Benefits and compensation

This is a full-time salaried position with an incentive compensation package. A comprehensive benefits package includes Health Insurance, Dental and Vision Insurance, Group Life Insurance, Short Term Disability Insurance, and a 401(k) with safe harbor employer contributions.

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