Types of Equity Research Jobs
Equity Research Analyst
An Equity Research Analyst is responsible for analyzing financial data and trends for specific companies or sectors. They create detailed reports and recommendations for investors based on their findings. Their work involves building financial models, conducting industry research, and meeting with company management. Equity Research Analysts often specialize in a particular industry, such as technology, healthcare, or energy. Their insights help clients make informed investment decisions.
Equity Research Associate
An Equity Research Associate supports senior analysts by gathering data, building financial models, and preparing research reports. They play a crucial role in the research process by conducting background research and helping to maintain databases. Associates often interact with company management and clients under the supervision of senior analysts. This role is typically a stepping stone to becoming a lead analyst. Associates must have strong analytical and communication skills.
Quantitative Equity Researcher
A Quantitative Equity Researcher uses advanced mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze stock market data. They develop quantitative models to identify investment opportunities and manage risk. Their work often involves programming and working with large datasets. Quantitative researchers collaborate closely with portfolio managers and traders. This role requires strong technical skills and a background in mathematics, statistics, or computer science.
Sector Specialist
A Sector Specialist focuses on a specific industry or sector, such as financials, consumer goods, or technology. They develop deep expertise in their chosen area and provide detailed analysis and recommendations. Sector Specialists often publish sector-specific reports and are sought after for their insights. They may also present their findings to clients and at industry conferences. This role requires strong industry knowledge and analytical skills.
Equity Research Strategist
An Equity Research Strategist develops broad investment strategies based on macroeconomic trends and market analysis. They provide high-level insights and recommendations to clients and internal teams. Strategists often publish thematic research reports and present their views to institutional investors. Their work involves synthesizing data from multiple sources and forecasting market movements. This role requires a strong understanding of economics, markets, and investment theory.
Entry Level Job Titles
Equity Research Associate
An Equity Research Associate is typically an entry-level position in the equity research field. Associates support senior analysts by collecting data, building financial models, and preparing research reports. They are responsible for monitoring news and events that may impact the companies or sectors they cover. Associates often interact with company management and clients under the guidance of senior analysts. This role provides a solid foundation for advancing to more senior research positions.
Junior Equity Research Analyst
A Junior Equity Research Analyst assists senior analysts in conducting financial analysis and preparing research reports. They are involved in data collection, industry research, and basic financial modeling. Junior analysts may also help with administrative tasks and maintaining research databases. This role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training in equity research. It is a common starting point for recent graduates interested in finance.
Research Assistant
A Research Assistant in equity research provides administrative and analytical support to the research team. They help gather data, update financial models, and assist in preparing presentations and reports. Research Assistants may also be responsible for tracking industry news and developments. This role is often a temporary or internship position for those looking to gain experience in the field. It offers valuable exposure to the equity research process.
Mid Level Job Titles
Equity Research Analyst
An Equity Research Analyst is a mid-level position responsible for covering specific companies or sectors. Analysts conduct in-depth financial analysis, build models, and write research reports with investment recommendations. They interact with company management, clients, and other stakeholders. Analysts are expected to develop expertise in their coverage area and contribute to the firm's research output. This role is a key step toward more senior research positions.
Senior Equity Research Associate
A Senior Equity Research Associate takes on more responsibility than a typical associate, often leading parts of the research process. They may cover smaller companies or sectors independently and assist in mentoring junior team members. Senior Associates are involved in client meetings and may present research findings. This role bridges the gap between entry-level and analyst positions. It requires strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
Senior Level Job Titles
Senior Equity Research Analyst
A Senior Equity Research Analyst leads the research coverage for specific sectors or companies. They are responsible for producing high-quality research reports and providing investment recommendations to clients. Senior Analysts often have a significant client-facing role and are recognized experts in their field. They mentor junior analysts and associates and may contribute to the firm's overall research strategy. This position requires extensive experience and a proven track record in equity research.
Lead Equity Research Analyst
A Lead Equity Research Analyst oversees a team of analysts and associates, ensuring the quality and consistency of research output. They set research agendas, review reports, and provide guidance to junior team members. Lead Analysts are often the primary point of contact for key clients and play a strategic role in the research department. They are expected to have deep industry knowledge and strong leadership skills. This role is a stepping stone to director-level positions.
Director Level Job Titles
Director of Equity Research
The Director of Equity Research manages the entire equity research department, setting strategic direction and overseeing all research activities. They are responsible for ensuring the quality and integrity of research reports and maintaining relationships with key clients. The Director leads hiring, training, and development of research staff. They also represent the firm at industry events and in the media. This role requires extensive experience, leadership ability, and a strong reputation in the industry.
VP Level Job Titles
Vice President, Equity Research
A Vice President in Equity Research is a senior leadership role responsible for managing teams of analysts and associates. They oversee research coverage, ensure the quality of reports, and develop client relationships. VPs play a key role in business development and may contribute to the firm's overall research strategy. They are often involved in high-profile client meetings and presentations. This position requires significant experience, strong analytical skills, and leadership capabilities.
How to Advance Your Current Equity Research Title
Develop Deep Industry Expertise
To advance in equity research, it is essential to develop deep expertise in your chosen sector or industry. This involves staying up-to-date with industry trends, building relationships with company management, and continuously improving your analytical skills. Publishing high-quality research reports and providing actionable investment recommendations can help you stand out. Networking with clients and industry professionals can also open up new opportunities. Pursuing relevant certifications, such as the CFA, can further enhance your credentials and career prospects.
Similar Equity Research Careers & Titles
Investment Banking Analyst
An Investment Banking Analyst performs financial analysis and valuation for mergers, acquisitions, and capital raising transactions. While their focus is more on deal execution than research, they use similar analytical skills and financial modeling techniques. Both roles require strong quantitative abilities and attention to detail. Investment Banking Analysts often work closely with equity research teams. The career paths can intersect, especially in the early stages.
Buy-Side Analyst
A Buy-Side Analyst works for asset management firms, hedge funds, or mutual funds, conducting research to support investment decisions. Unlike sell-side equity research, buy-side analysts focus on making investment recommendations for their firm's portfolio. They analyze companies, build financial models, and meet with management teams. The role requires similar skills to equity research but is more focused on internal investment outcomes. Buy-side roles are often seen as a natural progression for experienced equity researchers.
Credit Analyst
A Credit Analyst evaluates the creditworthiness of companies and their ability to meet debt obligations. While their focus is on fixed income rather than equities, they use similar analytical techniques and financial modeling. Credit Analysts assess financial statements, industry trends, and economic conditions. They often work for banks, rating agencies, or investment firms. The role requires strong analytical and research skills.
Portfolio Manager
A Portfolio Manager is responsible for managing investment portfolios, making buy and sell decisions based on research and market analysis. They often rely on the work of equity research analysts to inform their decisions. Portfolio Managers must have a deep understanding of financial markets, risk management, and investment strategies. This role is a common career goal for experienced equity researchers. It requires strong leadership and decision-making skills.
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst provides analysis and recommendations on financial performance, budgeting, and forecasting for companies or investment firms. While their focus may be broader than equity research, they use similar skills in financial modeling and analysis. Financial Analysts may work in corporate finance, investment banking, or asset management. The role offers a solid foundation for a career in equity research or related fields. It requires strong quantitative and analytical abilities.