Managing funds: An investment adviser assists clients on investment strategies, products and services that are suitable for their needs
Clockwork
9.30am: Reach office, check mails
10am: Scan newspapers for investment advisory transactions
10.30am: Concall with client
11.30am: Discussion with the team
12.30pm: Meeting with a first-time entrepreneur
1.30pm: Lunch meeting
2.30pm: Finalise and validate a financial forecasting model
4pm: Discussion with lawyers
5.30pm: Follow up calls to a few private equity investors
6.30pm: Read research report on renewable energy sector
7.30pm: Day ends
The payoff
While the fixed component of the pay could be average, the variable pay linked to the number of deal closures can be a significant component, even as high as 100% of the fixed salary or more
Skills/TRAITS
* Strong analytical capabilities
* Good understanding of financial statements
* Marketing and relationship- building skills
* Knowledge of regulations
Getting there
It is essential to clear the Association of Mutual Funds of India certification test to become a personal investment adviser. A certified financial planner certification would be an exceptional qualification. To become a corporate investment adviser, graduation/postgraduation with specialisation in finance is a must
Institutes and URLs
* Indian Institutes of Management, www.catiim.in
* Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai www.jbims.edu
* Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi www.fms.edu
* Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai www.nmims.edu
Pros and cons
n Excellent remuneration and job satisfaction
n Long working hours and unreasonable expectations of key stakeholders
n Volatility in deal closures
An investment adviser has a major impact on the life of his client, who thrusts responsibility on him, leaving limited scope for error of judgment -- N Muthuraman, director, RiverBridge Investment Advisors, Chennai