Operational Due Diligence - Consultant

Investment Consultant, Operational Due Diligence - Aon Global Investment Practice

Aon, a leading global professional services firm, is seeking a driven and meticulous Investment Consultant to join its esteemed Operational Due Diligence (ODD) team within the Global Investment Practice. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to play a pivotal role in safeguarding client investments by conducting thorough assessments of fund managers.

Why This Role is a Career Accelerator:

This position offers a unique platform for professional growth and impact within the financial services industry. As an Investment Consultant in Operational Due Diligence, you will:

• Gain Broad Exposure: You will be responsible for the end-to-end business and operational due diligence across a diverse range of asset classes, including Equities, Fixed Income, Hedge Funds, Private Equity, Real Estate, and Infrastructure. This comprehensive scope ensures a deep understanding of various investment strategies and their underlying operational frameworks.
• Develop Critical Analytical Skills: The role demands a sharp eye for detail and the ability to scrutinize complex documentation. You will hone your skills in reviewing due diligence questionnaires (DDQs), offering documents, financial statements, compliance manuals, and service provider agreements.
• Become a Trusted Advisor: You will conduct on-site visits to investment managers, identifying and assessing potential business and operational risks. Your findings will be crucial in producing detailed ODD reports, advising clients, the Investment Manager Research team, and senior management. This positions you as a key contributor to informed investment decisions.
• Engage with Stakeholders: The opportunity to interact with clients and prospects, both generally and on a manager-specific basis, will significantly enhance your communication and client management abilities.
• Contribute to Process Improvement: You will actively participate in the iterative improvement of Aon's ODD processes and questionnaires, leveraging your experience to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the team.
• Travel and Network: The role encourages travel within the EMEA region, providing valuable opportunities for networking and on-the-ground insights into the investment landscape.
• Business Development Involvement: You will have the chance to contribute to business development initiatives, broadening your understanding of the commercial aspects of the investment consulting business.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

To thrive in this role and make the most of this opportunity, candidates should consider the following:

• Minimum Experience: A minimum of 3 years of experience in an ODD role is required, demonstrating a foundational understanding of the operational risks within the investment management industry.
• Asset Class Knowledge: Proficiency across major asset classes, with a specific understanding of Hedge Funds, Private Equity, and Property, including their trading, valuation, and reconciliation best practices, is essential.
• Analytical Prowess: A high level of attention to detail, the ability to present succinct findings from complex monitoring work, and a naturally inquisitive nature are vital for success.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, coupled with a proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with internal and external clients, are paramount.
• Autonomy and Collaboration: The capacity to work independently on multiple assignments while adhering to deadlines and group standards, alongside being a team player, will ensure a balanced and productive work environment.
• Proactive Mindset: A proactive and self-starter attitude, coupled with a positive 'can-do' approach, will be highly valued.
• Educational Foundation: A university degree is a prerequisite. While not mandatory, desirable investment qualifications such as CFA or CAIA will significantly strengthen your candidacy.

Aon offers a competitive remuneration package, excellent training and development opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and empowering colleague experience. This role presents a significant opportunity to advance your career within a leading global firm, contributing to meaningful outcomes for clients worldwide.