Investment Research Analyst-HYBRID

AFG is seeking a motivated and intellectually curious Investment Research Analyst to support investment research, manager due diligence, and portfolio analysis. This role assists with the evaluation, selection, and ongoing monitoring of mutual funds, ETFs, hedge funds, private investments, and investment managers. While enhancing the firm's research capabilities through data analytics, process improvement, automation, and emerging technologies.

The ideal candidate combines strong investment knowledge, a data-driven mindset, a commitment to continuous learning, and a focus on delivering exceptional client outcomes.

This role is part of a highly experienced team dedicated to exceeding client expectations. The position follows a hybrid schedule, with at least two days per week in the Pittsburgh office and the remainder remote.

Key responsibilities include:

Investment Manager Research:

• Serve as a generalist assisting the Research Team in the due diligence of new and existing investment managers.
• Participate in all aspects of the research process, including generating quantitative scores for mutual funds and ETFs and assisting with the evaluation of hedge funds, private investment opportunities, and other alternative investment strategies using both quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Support due diligence efforts across traditional and alternative investment strategies, including mutual funds, ETFs, hedge funds, private markets, and other specialized investment vehicles.
• Analyze investment datasets to identify trends, performance drivers, risk characteristics, and manager-specific insights.
• Generate monthly, quarterly, and annual macroeconomic and fund exhibits for internal use and client reporting.
• Leverage AI-powered research tools and advanced analytics techniques to improve manager evaluation, portfolio monitoring, and investment due diligence processes.
• Assist in developing scalable research workflows that automate data collection, validation, reporting, and analysis.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence applications, to enhance the firm's research capabilities and decision-making processes.
• Effectively communicate research findings and recommendations to the Research Team, financial advisors, and planning professionals.
• Assist with materials, analysis, and research initiatives supporting the firm's Investment Committee and portfolio management process.

Data & Analytics:

• Strong analytical, quantitative, and data manipulation abilities are required (Excel, Power Query, VBA). Experience with Power BI or other data analysis tools is highly preferred.
• Assist in developing and maintaining databases used to track quantitative scores, performance metrics, due diligence observations, and research findings across traditional and alternative investment strategies.
• Aggregate, cleanse, and transform data from multiple sources into meaningful insights and actionable recommendations.
• Design and implement data-driven processes that improve research efficiency, data quality, and reporting consistency.
• Utilize AI tools and automation technologies to streamline repetitive tasks, improve data validation procedures, and enhance research productivity.
• Build dashboards, reports, and visualizations that communicate complex investment information in a clear and concise manner to research team members, advisors, and clients.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve workflows through process optimization, automation, and the responsible application of artificial intelligence.

Administrative & Operational Support:

• Coordinate meetings and due diligence calls with investment managers, mutual fund wholesalers, and portfolio management teams.
• Document meeting notes, research insights, and due diligence observations within firm systems.
• Support the Research Team with operational and administrative responsibilities that contribute to the efficient execution of research initiatives.