What are the responsibilities and job description for the Portfolio Analyst position at Bahl & Gaynor?
About B&G
Founded in 1990 by Bill Bahl and Vere Gaynor in Cincinnati, Bahl & Gaynor is a premier independent investment firm focused on dividend growth investing alongside an innovative, trusted client service. Our core value — ownership mindset — drives our relentless pursuit of excellence toward our purpose of increasing certainty for our clients.
Role Summary
Bahl & Gaynor’s Portfolio Analyst position is an entry level position designed to help you develop the skills necessary to advance with the firm. As an Analyst, you will play an integral part in assisting our advisors in delivering tailored investment management and financial planning solutions to our clients. The position reports to the Portfolio Manager.
More so than seeking a candidate with specific experience or technical training, we are looking for candidates who embrace an ownership mindset. This means taking full responsibility for your work, feeling empowered to drive results, and proactively identifying and addressing challenges. You will have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the success of our clients and the firm, and we expect you to take initiative, continuously look for ways to improve, and help shape the direction of the team. This is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to build a career in a supportive, long-term environment where your contributions are valued, and your growth is prioritized.
Location
This role will be based in the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
Responsibilities
General Responsibility 1: Support the execution and management of investment strategies.
- Evaluate equity and fixed income allocation relative to client income, diversification and tax efficiency
goals and model potential trades incorporating investment committee directives and advisor
preferences.
- Perform fundamental analysis on individual stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds.
- Master the tools and functionality of the Genesis trading platform and other internal portfolio
management applications.
General Responsibility 2: Support the precise generation, interpretation, and delivery of financial data to advisors and clients.
- Perform quality assurance checks for client presentation materials to align with advisor requests, ensure data accuracy, and minimize errors.
- Efficiently navigate reporting tools and resources to draft written and illustrative findings that enhance the client’s understanding of financial information upon request.
- Prioritize requests and set clear expectations to ensure timely, high-quality service.
General Responsibility 3: Support the financial planning process.
- Assisting in gathering client data to begin the financial planning process.
- Interact with financial planning software to develop scenarios to evaluate client financial health and ability to meet goals.
- Assist in creating and delivering financial planning recommendations.
General Responsibility 4: Support the management and nurturing of client interactions.
- Participate in client meetings with advisor and assist with meeting preparation as directed.
- Serve as the primary liaison for clients using the B&G online portal and assist with inquiries.
- Ensure timely responses to client emails and calls when the advisor is unavailable and escalate complex issues when needed.
- Review meeting notes with the advisor, input them into the CRM, and set tasks for advisor follow-up.
- Assist with new account onboarding, document collection, and new business pipeline management.
Qualifications/Requirements
Financial Knowledge and Analysis
- Bachelor’s degree in finance or a business-related field
- At least 2-3 in current finance related field
- Expectation to achieve CFP® certification.
- Basic understanding of financial products and services (e.g., savings accounts, loans, credit cards, stocks, bonds, ETFs, and mutual funds).
- Familiarity with stock markets, market indicators (e.g., prices, volume, market capitalization), and the concept of risk and return in trading.
- Awareness of trading platforms, tools, and financial mathematics (e.g., interest rates, compound interest).
- Strong numerical computation and data interpretation skills, including analyzing trends, patterns, and large data sets.
- Proficiency in applying mathematical reasoning to make informed decisions and solve problems.
Technical and Professional Skills
- Proficient in using mathematical tools and software (e.g., Excel, statistical software) for calculations and reporting.
- Skilled in proofreading, editing, and producing clear, concise, and error-free written materials tailored to the audience.
- Strong organizational, time management, and decision-making skills to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Knowledge of customer service practices and ability to provide friendly, personalized service.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people using tact, courtesy, and good judgment.
- Competent in drafting professional emails, conducting phone conversations, and building trust and rapport with clients and colleagues.
- Active listening skills and respect for diverse viewpoints to enhance collaboration and team support.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Strong critical thinking and proactive problem-solving skills to identify areas for improvement and propose actionable solutions.
- Ability to analyze information, deliver relevant details to stakeholders, and seek solutions without direct supervision.
- Capacity for logical thinking, attention to detail, and resourcefulness when addressing challenges or opportunities.
Professionalism and Adaptability
- Understanding workplace etiquette, confidentiality, and maintaining professional conduct under pressure.
- Ability to take ownership of tasks, anticipate challenges, and act preemptively.
- Intrinsic motivation – drive for constant self-improvement, intellectual curiosity, and resilience in facing risks or setbacks.
- Willingness to work beyond structural expectations to deliver timely task completion and excellent client service.
Client and Stakeholder Management
- Ability to prioritize client requests, set expectations, and explain financial products clearly.
- Capability to balance short-term needs with long-term goals while thinking strategically.
- Dedication to producing accurate and timely results tailored to client or stakeholder needs.
Additional Information: Based primarily at our headquarters in Downtown, Cincinnati, this role offers a dynamic environment with extensive exposure to asset management at one of the nation's largest dividend growth investment firms. You will have the opportunity to grow professionally and be rewarded economically. Join us to contribute to a team that values transparency, accountability, and consistent client satisfaction.
To Apply: Please submit your resume along with a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the best fit for this role.
We Offer: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive environment dedicated to professional growth and development.