Alastair Barbour

Name: Alastair Barbour

Current role: Associate Director

Department: Investment Management

University: Bristol

Degree: History

I was particularly interested in private client investment management because it adds the additional element of client personalities and requirements. This makes it varied and always interesting, and for a graduate means a range of opportunities and excellent prospects.

On joining in September 2006, I spent the first five months in a number of roles from banking to compliance, supporting the investment department in London. I then moved to the front office, initially as an assistant working with three fund managers.  Having completed professional exams, I became an investment manager in 2009.

My work involves monitoring stocks we have an interest in, carrying out research, executing and following up trades and communicating with clients. All in all, it allows me to build experience in three key areas: market awareness, client relationships and administrative functions.

It’s most rewarding when I talk to clients and discuss investment ideas with fund managers. It’s also quite satisfying to be learning constantly. I think, ultimately, you need to have a strong interest in investments and a commitment to meeting client expectations. An analytical, hard working and curious approach is also useful, particularly in investment management. The graduate programme provides plenty of support and direction, while also being flexible and adaptable. The varied nature of the work is another great plus - there are plenty of opportunities to learn and rarely a dull moment.