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What does a Portfolio Manager do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A portfolio manager is a professional who makes investment decisions on behalf of clients. They are responsible for creating and managing a portfolio of investments that meets the client's goals.

Portfolio Manager job duties include:

  • Research investment opportunities and analyze financial trends
  • Develop and implement investment strategies
  • Monitor portfolio performance and adjust asset allocations as needed
  • Research and select individual investments, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
  • Oversee the management of investment portfolios
  • Prepare reports on portfolio performance for clients or senior management
  • Stay up-to-date on economic trends and developments in the financial markets
  • Meet with clients to discuss their investment goals and objectives
  • Provide guidance and advice on investing in different asset classes

Portfolio Manager Job Requirements

A portfolio manager is responsible for making investment decisions and overseeing a portfolio of securities in order to achieve the financial goals of their clients. A portfolio manager may work for a financial institution, such as a bank, or they may be self-employed. In order to become a portfolio manager, one must have a bachelor's degree in a field such as finance, economics, or accounting. Some employers may require that candidates have a master's degree or be certified by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Candidates should also have several years of experience working in the financial industry.

Portfolio Manager Skills

  • Analytical
  • Profit and loss
  • Financial analysis
  • Budgeting
  • Asset management
  • Real estate
  • Financial modeling
  • Business strategy
  • Investment banking
  • Business development
  • Investment management
  • Financial planning

Related: Top Portfolio Manager Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Portfolio Manager

A portfolio manager is a professional who helps companies and individuals make investment decisions. They are responsible for researching and analyzing investments, making recommendations, and monitoring portfolios.

Becoming a portfolio manager requires a combination of education and experience. Most portfolio managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, or finance. Many also have an MBA or other advanced degree. In addition to formal education, portfolio managers must have strong analytical and research skills. They must be able to understand complex financial data and make sound investment decisions.

Experience is also important for becoming a portfolio manager. Many portfolio managers start their careers as research analysts or financial analysts. This experience gives them the opportunity to develop the skills needed to be successful in this role. Some portfolio managers also have experience working in investment banking or private equity.

If you are interested in becoming a portfolio manager, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of success. First, focus on getting the best education possible. Attend a top college or university and get good grades in your courses. Second, try to gain experience working with investments. This can be done through internships, part-time jobs, or even volunteering. Finally, stay up-to-date on current trends in the investment world. By keeping abreast of new developments, you will be better prepared to make sound investment decisions when you become a portfolio manager.

Related: Portfolio Manager Resume Example

Related: Portfolio Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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