Credit Analyst (Prescient Investment Management)

Prescient Limited; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading investment management firm in Cape Town seeks a Credit Analyst to develop analytics tools and perform credit portfolio risk analysis. Candidates should have a postgraduate degree and advanced Excel skills. This role offers excellent growth potential with exposure to various asset classes and the opportunity to engage in credit research and analysis.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree required, preferably in science, engineering, or finance.
• CA (SA) and CFA candidates preferred.
• Experience in Private Debt or Project Finance is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop analytics tools and strategies for Credit Funds.
• Research and develop models to monitor credit portfolio performance.
• Originate debt investments and liaise with bond issuers.

Skills

Advanced Excel skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

University Post Graduate Degree (Science/Engineering/Finance)

CA (SA)

CFA or Masters equivalent

Job description

Credit Analyst (Prescient Investment Management) The candidate will be part of the Credit team responsible for the Prescient Credit funds.

To utilise PIM credit philosophy process by employing quantitative analysis in asset selection, pricing and managing of credit portfolio.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Key Objective The key objective is the development of analytics tools and strategies, as well as the improvement and extension of PRIME for the Credit Funds.

Quantitative Analysis

Assist in defining the PRIME framework and incorporate current analytics tools and reporting. Develop processes and analytics tools to monitor model and portfolio performance and accuracy. Research and develop models and techniques.

Document research, processes, and model validation.

Credit Research and Analysis

Apply established models to compute default probability scores. An analyst would be required to make an analytical argument on the change thereto over time, highlight downside risks for the foreseeable future, and rank & compare to industry peers.

Use PIM sector-specific financial scorecards to analyse the creditworthiness of companies and their sub-factor drivers of the credit score, incorporating ESG analysis. Perform in-depth analysis and research to assess and monitor the creditworthiness of borrowers / issuers over the term of the exposure.

Understand market dynamics (e.g., credit supply / demand) and company fundamentals influencing PIM's credit investments.

Credit Management

Monitor the risk-adjusted return of the credit universe, build and oversee portfolio optimization models, and make recommendations to enhance credit portfolio performance.

Engage in counterparty interactions as part of the role.

Assess credit opportunities, including exposure to assets in Infrastructure Funds (monitoring and new opportunities).

Investment Analysis

Originate debt investments via new and existing borrowers, liaising with bond issuers, DCM teams, arrangers, and rating agencies.

Provide input into the development of broader responsible investment policies, ESG methodologies, and impact strategies.

Credit Process Development and Advancement

Validate investment models and monitor portfolio performance and accuracy.

Contribute to research and development of new models and techniques.

Document research, processes, and model validation.

Ensure the accuracy and currency of information used in the process.

Team Interaction

The key objective is to work on a collaborative basis, ensuring that the team remains cohesive and successful.

The analyst is expected to : Follow a collaborative approach aligned with the Prescient value system.

Be proactive in generating new research and participating in debates.

Suggest and implement process enhancements to improve / create efficiencies.

Contribute positively and adopt a solutions-driven mindset.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

University Post Graduate Degree (Science / Engineering / Finance) / Masters.

CA (SA) with articles will be advantageous (Financial Services / Financial Engineering Group experience).

CFA / Studying towards CFA; and / or Masters equivalent.

Advanced Excel skills and model building.

Prior experience in Private Debt, Hybrid Debt, Project Finance will be advantageous.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Ability to generate ideas and think logically.

Structured work style, attention to detail and accuracy is of the utmost importance.

Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving.

Excellent interpersonal skills, excellent communication skills oral and written.

Strong ability to manage complex processes and focus on business outcomes in a complex uncertain environment.

Strong work ethic, self-motivated, driven and results oriented.

Ability to listen and respond to new ideas, input and diverse perspectives.

High levels of self-confidence, assertive as well as healthy levels of EQ.

Must be able to manage workflow on longer-term research projects.

Energetic problem-solver.

Ability to demonstrate an advanced degree of technological competence.

Passionate about investments.

WHY THIS ROLE?

This is your opportunity to be responsible for credit research & credit portfolio risk analysis.

The role is well suited for an individual with strong technical skills, a qualified CA(SA) and / or currently completing CFA studies (or masters equivalent).

A great role with excellent growth potential and exposure to various asset classes.