Product Development

Job Description

About Morgan Stanley Investment Management

Morgan Stanley Investment Management (“MSIM”), alongside its investment advisory affiliates, boasts over 1,400 investment professionals globally, managing or overseeing $1.5 trillion in assets as of March 31, 2024. Their commitment lies in delivering robust long-term investment returns, exceptional client service, and a comprehensive suite of investment management solutions to a diverse clientele, encompassing governments, institutions, corporations, and individuals worldwide.

Co-op Program: An Opportunity to Learn and Grow

MSIM offers undergraduate co-op programs designed to immerse students in a specific group within the division. This six-month experience provides hands-on work and cultural immersion, fostering a enriching and formative learning environment. While the co-op role primarily emphasizes learning and development, it may not directly translate to full-time opportunities within the firm.

MSIM Alternatives Product Development Team: Shaping the Future of Funds

The MSIM Alternatives Product Development team plays a crucial role in overseeing the entire lifecycle of fund launches for various alternative asset classes, including private equity, private credit, real estate, infrastructure, and hedge funds. They actively partner with portfolio managers during the fund development process, from ideation to execution. This team also spearheads initiatives with the sales and distribution team, conducting competitor analysis and equipping them with market updates, competitor insights, and emerging trends to drive product development.

Responsibilities of the Co-op: A Deep Dive into Product Development

The co-op will engage in a diverse range of responsibilities, collaborating with various teams to contribute to the successful launch, management, and evolution of investment products. This includes:

• Product Launch & Lifecycle Management: Working closely with Investment Teams, Distribution & Marketing, Legal & Compliance, and Operations to understand strategic direction, identify opportunities, execute new product launches, navigate mergers and strategy transitions, manage liquidations, and provide ongoing support to the product platform.
• Market Research & Analysis: Conducting thorough market research and analyses of competitor funds, performance, and global investment trends using specialized databases to inform product development initiatives.
• Document Development & Marketing: Assisting in the creation of offering documents, marketing materials, and operational processes to effectively communicate and promote investment products.
• Product Demand Assessment: Engaging with sales teams to understand market demand and identify potential product gaps or opportunities.
• Strategic Growth Initiatives: Supporting strategic organic growth initiatives, including new product launches, team acquisitions, and sales efforts.
• Corporate Development & M&A: Analyzing and synthesizing financial statements and operating information about potential acquisition targets to support corporate development and M&A efforts.
• Geographical Market Analysis: Researching and analyzing various geographical markets and specific segments within the asset management industry, such as China, retirement/DC, and insurance channels. This involves market sizing, identifying growth trends, and profiling key market participants.

Qualifications for Success: A Blend of Skills and Drive

Candidates must possess the following qualifications to thrive in this co-op role:

• Academic Background: Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree with graduation expected in December 2025 or later.
• Availability: Available to start the co-op position in July or August 2024 and commit to working full-time for the entire six-month duration.
• Academic Excellence: Exceptional academic performance is essential.
• Communication Prowess: Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are critical for effective collaboration and information sharing.
• Team Collaboration: A proven ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues across the team and within the broader organization.
• Proactive & Adaptable: An energetic, self-starter with a team-oriented mindset who thrives in a dynamic environment.
• Organizational & Time Management: Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Analytical & Detail-Oriented: A problem-solver with a keen analytical mind and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint is essential for data analysis, presentation development, and communication.

Application Process & Deadline

Candidates interested in this co-op opportunity must submit their resume through the Morgan Stanley website. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting May 24th, 2024, and continuing until June 30th, 2024, or until the position is filled, whichever occurs first. Applications will no longer be accepted after June 30th, 2024, at 11:55 PM EST.

Compensation Package

The expected base pay rate for the co-op role is $30-$40 per hour upon commencement of employment. However, base pay represents only a portion of the overall compensation package, which may also include discretionary bonuses and other Morgan Stanley-sponsored benefit programs depending on the specific position.