Graduate Quantitative Analyst

Independent Alternatives Investment Managers; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist asset management firm is seeking a Graduate Quantitative Analyst to join its Hedge Fund Academy in Johannesburg. This program aims to develop previously disadvantaged graduates into investment professionals through hands-on experience and academic support. The ideal candidate should possess a degree in a related field and strong programming skills in R or Python. Responsibilities include conducting investment research, building financial models, and enhancing efficiency through automation.

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant quantitative or STEM field with strong programming ability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quantitative investment research and portfolio optimisation.
• Build, maintain and improve quantitative models and databases.
• Automate research processes and enhance efficiency.
• Develop and support portfolio risk monitoring and risk management tools.

Skills

Programming in R and/or Python

Strong Excel and VBA skills

Genuine interest in investments and financial markets

Self-starter

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Education

Degree in Quantitative/Mathematical Finance, Actuarial Science, Computer Science, or a STEM degree

Job description

Graduate Quantitative Analyst– IA Hedge Fund Academy

Location: Johannesburg

Closing Date: 31 December 2025

About Independent Alternatives Investment Managers (IA)

Independent Alternatives Investment Managers is a specialist, majority black-owned asset manager offering domestic hedge funds and long-only funds. We follow a disciplined investment philosophy focused on preserving and growing the real value of our clients’ assets while managing risk responsibly.

The IA Hedge Fund Academy

The IA Hedge Fund Academy is a 3-year programme designed to develop black, previously disadvantaged graduates into fully-fledged investment professionals in the South African hedge fund industry.

As part of the Academy, you will:

• Enrol for a Master’s in Financial Engineering or pursue CFA/CAIA.
• Understudy experienced portfolio managers.
• Contribute to research, idea generation and portfolio construction across our mandates.

The Role : Graduate Quantitative Analyst

We are looking for a dynamic, passionate EE graduate with strong technical and programming skills to join our Academy.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct quantitative investment research and portfolio optimisation.
• Build, maintain and improve quantitative models and databases.
• Automate research processes and enhance efficiency.
• Develop and support portfolio risk monitoring and risk management tools.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Degree in Quantitative/Mathematical Finance, Actuarial Science, Computer Science, or a STEM degree with strong programming ability.

Skills & Competencies

• Programming in R and/or Python.
• Strong Excel and VBA skills.
• Genuine interest in investments and financial markets.
• Self-starter, collaborative, able to multi-task.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Experience

• No prior work experience required.
• Shortlisted candidates will complete a programming assessment.

How to Apply

Send your CV to: [e-mail]

Subject line: Graduate Quantitative Analyst – IA Hedge Fund Academy

Join IA and help shape the future of South African hedge funds through data-driven investing and meaningful transformation.