To become an alternative investment manager, one needs a strong foundation in education and training, including a degree in finance or accounting, a graduate degree, financial certifications, and experience through internships or entry-level jobs. Different types of alternative management require different skill sets, and Ivy League colleges or good grades in math are often preferred. Experience is also important, and starting as a junior member of a team can lead to success.
Pursuing a career in asset management can result in one of the most luxurious lifestyles available. To become an alternative investment manager, where some of the most sophisticated securities are traded and profit expectations are the highest, there needs to be a proper foundation laid in education and training. Completing a college education with some degree in finance or accounting, as well as obtaining a graduate degree are the essential elements. From there, earning investment certification and taking on internships or entry-level jobs at financial institutions are part of the path to becoming an investment manager for alternative assets.
Pursuing a career in asset management may require different types of financial training, depending on the specific niche to pursue. To become an alternative investment manager, the first decision is to know the type of asset you want to oversee. Private equity, hedge funds and real estate are all different types of alternative management, and each requires a different skill set. Hedge funds are focused on trading securities such as stocks, bonds and derivatives whereas private equity professionals are investing in companies and managing them. Real estate is the management of physical properties or investment funds that invest in commercial properties.
To become an alternative investment manager, many professionals attend Ivy League colleges or at least produce extremely good grade point averages, particularly in math. Hiring companies pride themselves on the level of education achieved by employees. The focus of an undergraduate degree should be on some level of finance, which can almost seamlessly transition into a graduate career. Many finance professionals have earned a Master of Business Administration degree to become an alternative investment manager.
Upon completion of undergraduate and graduate education, it is necessary to obtain financial certifications and licenses to become an alternative investment manager. Alternative managers oversee complex securities such as derivatives and apply sophisticated trading strategies to these investments. An investment manager cannot even start trading these securities without proper certifications.
Alternative investment firms tend to hire professionals with experience. To land your first job, you may need to work in a training program or undertake an unpaid internship. Being willing to be a junior member of a team will increase the client’s ability to become an alternative investment manager. Demonstrate financial skills, as well as the ability to maintain relationships with a company’s senior executives, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an alternative investment manager.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
