Equity Research Analyst

Job Description: Research Analyst – U.S. Equity Investments
Department: Equity Investments Reports To: Head of Equity Investments Functional Title: Research Analyst
Location: New York (On-site, 5 days)
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Equity Research Analyst with approximately 1-5 years of experience in U.S. equity markets. The candidate will be responsible for supporting the full investment process, including company and sector research, financial modeling, valuation analysis, and preparation of investment committee presentations. The role also includes monitoring covered companies, engaging with corporate management teams and sell-side analysts, and providing timely recommendations to portfolio managers. In addition, the role will contribute to investor-facing activities by preparing portfolio updates, performance summaries, and strategic outlook materials, ensuring consistency and clarity in communications with stakeholders. The position also requires close collaboration with Japanese expatriates, including providing English-language support. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for working effectively with internal teams, external stakeholders, and investors.
Key Responsibilities
Equity Research & Investment Execution
Conduct comprehensive fundamental research on listed companies, including strategy evaluation, financial performance, management quality, and alignment of interests with shareholders.
Analyze financial statements, earnings drivers, industry positioning, and competitive dynamics.
Develop and maintain detailed financial models to assess company valuations, cash flow projections, and scenario/sensitivity analyses.
Coordinate with external research providers, sell-side analysts, and consultants to validate assumptions and enhance investment decision-making.
Prepare investment recommendation materials and support the execution of trades and investment approvals.
Portfolio Monitoring & Reporting
Monitor ongoing performance of covered companies, including earnings releases, guidance updates, and material news flow.
Maintain and update portfolio tracking tools and databases to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
Identify and escalate deviations from expected performance, operational issues, or material changes in company strategies.
Assist in preparing periodic portfolio reviews and attribution analysis for senior management and stakeholders.
Investment Committee (IC) Support
Prepare detailed presentation materials for IC meetings, including investment rationale, risk analysis, sector outlook, and valuation scenarios.
Present investment opportunities and respond to questions from committee members with clarity and professionalism.
Track IC feedback and ensure follow-up actions are completed in a timely manner.
Trade & Portfolio Operations
Monitor and forecast portfolio cash flows (dividends, share buybacks, corporate actions).
Coordinate trading activities with portfolio managers, custodians, and operations teams, and execute actual equity trades as required.
Ensure accurate reconciliation of holdings, valuations, and risk exposures.
Support audits, compliance checks, and regulatory filings as required.
Research & Strategy Development
Participate in regular research meetings with portfolio managers to discuss new investment ideas.
Present stock recommendations in meetings where potential new holdings are evaluated, including preparing and delivering clear investment theses, valuation analyses, and risk assessments.
Document meeting outcomes and follow up on action items with relevant stakeholders.
Collaborate with internal and external research providers to refine investment strategies based on market trends and portfolio objectives.
Conduct market research, sector studies, and scenario analysis to support strategic planning.
Investor Presentation & Reporting
Prepare professional presentation materials for investor meetings, including portfolio updates, performance summaries, and strategic outlooks.
Support investor relations by responding to inquiries and providing timely updates on fund performance and market developments.
Coordinate with senior management to ensure consistency and accuracy in investor communications.
Assist in the development of investor reports and marketing materials.
Risk Management
Support the development and implementation of risk management frameworks for equity investments, including both qualitative and quantitative assessments.
Monitor macroeconomic, market, and sector-specific risks that may impact portfolio performance.
Collaborate with internal risk and compliance teams to ensure adherence to investment guidelines and regulatory requirements.
Document and maintain risk registers and mitigation strategies for each investment to propose.
Conduct risk analysis utilizing risk management tools to quantify exposures and enhance decision- making.
Internal Coordination & External Communication
Work closely with internal investment, legal, finance, and operations teams to ensure smooth execution of investment processes.
Liaise with sell-side analysts, consultants, and external research providers to gather market intelligence, validate assumptions, and support investment decisions.
Maintain organized documentation and communication records for audit and compliance purposes.
Communicate effectively in English with Japanese expatriates to support business operations and ensure alignment on investment activities.
Participate, as necessary, in internal cross-departmental meetings as well as Equity Team discussions to ensure alignment and effective communication of investment activities.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or a related field; MBA or Master’s degree preferred.
Approximately 1-5 years of experience in equity research, investment management, or related buy-side or sell-side roles.
Experience in stock selection, sector coverage or supporting portfolio managers with investment recommendations is preferred.
Professional certifications such as CFA or similar are preferred.
Skills & Competencies
Strong analytical skills with expertise in financial modeling, valuation techniques (DCF, comparables, scenario/sensitivity analysis), and fundamental research.
Ability to generate differentiated investment ideas and clearly articulate the investment thesis and risks.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing internal investment memos, presenting to portfolio managers and investment committees, and communicating investment views to investors.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Bloomberg, Barra, or other financial databases.
Familiarity with U.S. equity markets, sector dynamics, and company-specific drivers. Deep knowledge of a specific industry sector, developed through prior practical experience, is preferred.
Preferred Attributes
Comfortable engaging with senior investment professionals, corporate management teams, sell-side analysts, external advisors.
Demonstrated ability to work under tight deadlines, particularly during earnings seasons, while managing multiple priorities.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Detail oriented, proactive and able to excel in a highly collaborative team.
A flexible team player able to adapt to change.
Flexibility to adapt to the management style of Japanese life insurance companies' asset management subsidiaries.
Proactiveness to carry out work while communicating with non-native Japanese expatriates.
To apply, please email your resume to xjiang@pasona.com