Portfolio Manager

Sanlam; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanlam Investment Group is a leading South African asset manager seeking a senior investment research professional to support multi-asset portfolios and manager research. You will generate ideas, benchmark managers, and contribute to client portfolio positioning.

You will work with a team focused on delivering sustainable investment outcomes, governance, and regulatory alignment while remaining client‑centric and market aware.

Qualifications

• BCom, CFA, CA or CIS with 3 to 6 years related experience.
• Studying towards a relevant post graduate qualification would be advantageous (CFA, FRM, etc.).
• Knowledge and experience in the management of multi‑asset class portfolios, portfolio construction and tradeoffs in risk and return.

Responsibilities

• Undertake research and analysis of assigned investment management capabilities with a view to producing and maintaining comprehensive investment cases.
• Regularly present formal research to the wider investment team.
• Provide alpha generating input into the SIMM Manager Buy List.
• Provide alpha generating input into the positioning of client portfolios – manager selection, asset allocation & risk management.
• General portfolio management duties including client feedback presentations and new business pitches.
• Contribute to the maintenance of the SIMM manager database.
• Remain abreast of research developments in the broader investment industry.

Skills

Analytical skills

Numerical skills

Written reports

Problem solving

Independent working

Education

BCom, CFA, CA or CIS

Tools

MS Office

VBA

Job description

Sanlam Investment Group

The Sanlam Investment Group is uniquely equipped and positioned to deliver on its purpose of empowering generations to be financially confident, secure and prosperous. Through our vast in‑house expertise and strategic partner networks, we can access all asset classes across the globe, private and public, actively and passively managed, to develop investment solutions that are in our clients’ best interests and have a positive impact on society. Backed by the Sanlam Group’s balance sheet, the Sanlam Investment Group has a true competitive advantage in its ability to invest alongside clients, particularly in private markets where impact investing drives the agenda.

Who are we?

Sanlam Investment Group

Sanlam Investment Group is uniquely equipped and positioned to deliver on its purpose of empowering generations to be financially confident, secure and prosperous. Through our vast in‑house expertise and strategic partner networks, we can access all asset classes across the globe, private and public, actively and passively managed, to develop investment solutions that are in our clients’ best interests and have a positive impact on society. Backed by the Sanlam Group’s balance sheet, the Sanlam Investment Group has a true competitive advantage in its ability to invest alongside clients, particularly in private markets where impact investing drives the agenda.

The Sanlam Investment Group is one of the largest, most diversified financial services and investment firms in Southern Africa with assets under management and administration of more than R2 trillion. It is a B-BBEE level 1 contributor and one of the largest black‑empowered asset managers on the African continent.

Sanlam Investments Multi‑Manager

Crafting solutions with your unique investment needs in mind, for decisions you can be confident in

Investment decisions carry significant responsibility. Whether for an institution stewarding long‑term capital or an individual investing for the future, the objective remains the same: delivering sustainable outcomes while remaining aligned with long‑term goals, governance requirements and evolving market realities.

We understand that performance is critical. But successful investing requires more than strong returns. It also requires staying true to your purpose, navigating complex obligations, managing risk responsibly and ensuring portfolios remain aligned with long‑term objectives.

At Sanlam Investments Multi‑Manager, we help both institutional and retail investors navigate this complexity with clarity and confidence.

Acting as solutions architects, we design portfolios around your specific objectives. Our approach integrates investment goals, risk appetite, governance requirements, regulatory considerations, ESG and transformation priorities, and long‑term performance benchmarks into a cohesive investment strategy. Every portfolio we construct brings together these elements into a disciplined and well‑governed framework designed to support long‑term outcomes. Our purpose‑driven approach seeks to provide appropriate investment solutions for the different stages of investors’ journeys and the goals they aim to achieve. The result is a portfolio designed not only to perform, but to remain aligned, accountable and resilient over time.

Purpose of the role

Responsible for functions relating to the efficient and effective management of multi‑managed investment portfolios to ensure that the most advantageous rate of return is attained from the assets invested. Responsible for the management of client and stakeholder relationships. Keeps abreast of latest developments and trends in the marketplace. Responsible for Asset Manager Research and provision of research for consumption within the broader team.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake research and analysis of assigned investment management capabilities with a view to producing and maintaining comprehensive investment cases on the various capabilities offered by these managers.
• Regularly present formal research to the wider investment team.
• Provide “alpha generating” input into the formulation of the SIMM Manager Buy List.
• Provide “alpha generating” input into the positioning of client portfolios – manager selection, asset allocation & risk management.
• General portfolio management duties including client feedback presentations and new business pitches.
• Contribute to the maintenance of the SIMM manager database.
• Remain abreast of research developments (both local and international) in the broader investment industry.

Qualifications And Experience

• BCom, CFA, CA or CIS with 3 to 6 years related experience
• Studying towards a relevant post graduate qualification would be advantageous (CFA, FRM, etc.).
• Knowledge and experience in the management of multi‑asset class portfolios, portfolio construction and tradeoffs in risk and return.

Technical and Behavioural Competencies

• Excellent understanding of:
• the investment management industry
• the macroeconomic environment
• financial markets
• financial instruments (including derivatives)
• portfolio construction
• risk
• A proven track record in delivering high quality manager research and portfolio construction research ideas, from initial idea generation through to implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to generate ideas and strategies to enhance portfolio returns and mitigate risk.
• Analytical and numerical skills with a proven ability to solve problems in a timely basis.
• Ability to produce written reports which clearly articulate the analyst’s research.
• Computer literate (MS Office - advanced, knowledge of VBA and/or other programming languages would be advantageous).
• Track record of academic and professional success.
• Passion and flair for investments.
• Ability to debate in a constructive manner, challenge popular wisdom.
• Inquisitive nature, desire to learn.
• Able to remain calm and objective in the face of periods of excessive optimism or extreme pessimism in the capital markets.
• Results driven and be prepared to do whatever it takes to get the job done.
• Flexible team player.
• High level of numeric ability.
• Thrives in a highly pressurised and dynamic environment.
• Proactive and the ability to work and think independently.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

Knowledge And Skills

• Asset Management
• Investment monitoring and compliance
• Formulates, revises and implements the investment plans
• Recommendations and presentation of results
• Investment strategies and management of complex investments

Personal Attributes

Alignment of the value of the business – Curiosity, Candor, Accountability and Trust. Culture and alignment on these values is a key component for success in the business.

Build a successful career with us

We’re all about building strong, lasting relationships with our employees. We know that you have hopes for your future – your career, your personal development and of achieving great things. We pride ourselves in helping our employees to realise their worth. Through its five business clusters – Sanlam Fintech, Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Allianz, Santam, as well as MiWay and the Group Office – the group provides many opportunities for growth and development.

Turnaround time

The shortlisting process will only start once the application due date has been reached. The time taken to complete this process will depend on how far you progress and the availability of managers.

Our commitment to transformation

The Sanlam Group is committed to achieving transformation and embraces diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse, inclusive and equitable workplace as we believe that these are key components to ensuring a thriving and sustainable business in South Africa. The Group's Employment Equity plan and targets will be considered as part of the selection process.