Director, Institutional Distribution

At Harris, the true value of what makes us successful is found in our people. It is our unique mix of cultures, experiences, beliefs and backgrounds that sets Harris apart from the rest.  We constantly strive to cultivate, nurture and amplify an unparalleled environment, where we value intellectual curiosity and uniqueness of thought.  Inclusion is embedded in the very fabric of our culture of collaboration and openness.

We understand that a job description only tells one part of a broader story, and Harris is seeking dynamic candidates who can add to our best-in-class environment. We recognize that qualifications can be gained through both traditional and non-traditional paths, and we are committed to considering candidates who possess the potential to be excellent in this role regardless of prior experiences.  

Therefore we encourage ALL interested individuals to submit their applications, even if they do not meet every requirement outlined in the job description. 

Position Summary

Primary objective is to grow Harris | Oakmark’s institutional client base in the US.  The role will spend most of the time fostering new relationships with prospective institutional investors & consultants. Some (minority) time may also be spent on relationship management with existing clients and consultants in an effort to retain and grow our client base via cross-selling.

Duties and responsibilities

• Identify/generate new business opportunities by developing and nurturing institutional investors and consultants.
• Key targets are Consultants, Foundations & Endowments, Pensions plans and Taft-Hartley Government-related Retirement Plans.
• Increase assets under management for all of the firm’s investment strategies and vehicles.
• Assess client investment objectives, convey investment strategies, and explain portfolio results in one-on-one or group settings to maintain and retain client relationships.
• Effectively articulate Harris’ investment philosophy, process, products and performance topics in order to differentiate our firm from competitors.
• Provide updates to internal constituents (Portfolio Managers/Management) on an ongoing basis.
• Utilize industry best practices to increase efficiency, including but not limited to, updating key information client/prospect information in our CRM system and utilizing a data-driven distribution approach.
• Maintain involvement in industry and networking organizations as necessary in order to foster relationships with the consultant community and prospective clients.
• Stand in for Portfolio Managers and provide detailed strategy and portfolio updates to clients and prospects. This will include finals presentations, quarterly update calls, and involves significant travel.
• Work closely with our Client Portfolio Manager’s and investment team to better understand current portfolio positioning and performance drivers.

Position Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)

• A bachelor’s degree preferably in a business-related field; MBA, CFA valued
• A proven track record of developing new business will be highly valued.
• A minimum of 10 years sales and marketing experience, preferably in the investment industry.
• Must possess and be able to apply knowledge of a fundamentally-based, value-oriented investment approach, as well as have a solid understanding of investment strategies
• Outstanding communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills are essential.
• Strong attention to detail, high degree of initiative and adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple tasks; must be a self-starter.
• The ability to work independently as well as in a team environment and work with numerous and conflicting deadlines and various personalities.
• Must have an understanding of the needs and requirements of the institutional investment community

Special Requirements:

• Regular Travel – domestically and potentially globally on occasion (may require weekend travel)
• After hours activities are a requirement (prospect/consultant networking, conferences, etc.)

Location:

• Chicago preferred. If outside Chicago there is a strong preference for a major financial hub in the US (i.e. – NYC area, Boston, TX (Dallas/Austin), CA (SF, LA).

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement
Harris Associates L.P. pursues a policy of equal opportunity in all areas of employment including recruitment, hiring, training, compensation, benefits, advancement, and treatment on the job. This means that Harris does not discriminate against employees, or qualified applicants, based on an individual's race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, national origin, physical disability, sexual orientation, trans-gender status, transsexual status, status as a veteran or disabled veteran, genetic information or for any other reason prohibited by law.  Harris reserves the right to review publicly available information about applicants (i.e., via social networking sites), to the extent permissible under applicable law.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice
We provide reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the alternative email address below to contact us about your interest in employment at HR@harrisassoc.com or you can call us at 312-646-3600.

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