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by Ryan McGloin, Volunteer
March 24, 2005 - Panelists David G. Flinn, CFA, Jodie M. Gunzberg, CFA and William Benton, CFA discussed their career starts and occupational success factors in the investment industry at this sold-out event attended by 110 people at Nick's Fishmarket.
David G. Flinn, CFA, is Vice President of Investments at Grosvenor Capital Management. He progressed into asset management by leveraging his established skill set. As a PriceWaterhouseCoopers due diligence auditor thoroughly examining key business issues, he gained confidence to ask tough questions to evaluate management performance. This skill has facilitated his current role evaluating fund managers.
Jodie M. Gunzberg, CFA, was a Portfolio Manager at Delaware Street Capital. She believes individuals should seek jobs in industries where they have an "edge." This could be a function of either an occupational skill set and/or relate to personality or preferences. Mathematically adept, she pursued a quantitatively focused career. In her transitions from actuary to corporate finance to asset management, math skills were crucial.
William Benton, CFA, is an Equity Research Analyst at William Blair & Company specializes in communications as well as industrial technology. He finds the match between applicant skill sets and job obligations a top priority. Equity research lets him meet with management teams and give opinions on a company or sector, which he finds appealing. By selecting a coverage universe, supervising associates and communicating with investors, equity analysts can tailor their roles to their preferences.
All panelists advise individuals pursing an investment industry career to earn the CFA designation. It signals to employers greater personal initiative and also assures a standard level of competence in finance, accounting and other skill sets.
The panelists then described the positives and negatives of their respective industries. Interactions with senior management and intellectual challenges were frequently noted as compelling career benefits. Significant time commitments in excess of 60 and up to 80 hours per week were the main disadvantages. Mr. Flinn and Mr. Benton stated they also traveled extensively. Furthermore, Mr. Benton stated the career fortunes of an equity analyst covering a specific universe are tied to the performance of its industry group.
The panelists encouraged pursuit of career paths that ultimately provided personal fulfillment via enjoyable and exciting responsibilities.