Haere Mai!
We are the Kaitiaki / Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation. We are proud of our Te Whāinga / Our purpose: Sustainable investment delivering strong returns for all New Zealanders. We invest government contributions to the NZ Super Fund, a global investment fund helping to ensure the country can pay for the growing cost of universal superannuation (New Zealand Superannuation) in the future. We also oversee the Elevate Fund, which invests in small, fast-growing New Zealand companies.
At the Guardians there’s an energy, passion and a shared commitment to excellence: in 2024 the NZ Super Fund was named the world’s best-performing sovereign wealth fund. The work is complex, innovative and intellectually stimulating. Sustainable finance, including a commitment to being net zero by 2050, is core to our Mātāpono / way of working.
About the position
This is a compelling opportunity to join a highly regarded investment team responsible for the origination, management and oversight of the Guardians’ alternative investments portfolio. As Portfolio Manager, Alternative Investments, you will play a critical role in shaping portfolio strategy and execution across hedge funds, trend, systematic equities, insurance and other alternative investment strategies.
The Alternative Investments team sits within the Private Equity and Alternative Investments group and works closely with internal partners across Sustainable Investment, Asset Allocation, Real Assets, Strategic Tilting, Data Analytics, Portfolio Completion, Portfolio Investments, Portfolio Strategy and Research, Operational Due Diligence, Legal and Finance. You will also engage extensively with global peer funds, external managers and advisers to access insight, capability and best practice.
- Develop and implement portfolio strategies and execution plans aligned with the Guardians’ investment objectives across alternative investments.
- Originate, assess and execute new investment opportunities across hedge funds, trend, systematic equities and other alternative strategies.
- Manage the performance and risk of existing investments on a “no surprises” basis, recommending corrective actions where required.
- Recommend investments and lead mandate structuring, commercial negotiation, appointment and ongoing oversight of external investment managers.
- Maintain an active pipeline of high-quality managers and products, with strong awareness of product suitability and capacity constraints.
- Build and maintain relationships with non-incumbent managers and global peer funds to stay at the forefront of market developments.
- Prepare high-quality investment papers and recommendations for internal committees and the Guardians’ Board.
- Analyse financial, performance and risk data to support robust investment decision-making.
- Contribute to the development of internal investment tools, processes and strategic thinking through research and insight.
- Participate in relevant risk target teams to inform risk allocation recommendations.
- Mentor, coach and support junior team members, contributing to capability development and effective collaboration.
- Ensure ESG considerations, stakeholder perspectives and public entity responsibilities are embedded in all investment activity.
About you
- Demonstrated portfolio management experience within alternative investment asset classes.
- Strong commercial judgement, critical thinking and negotiation skills.
- Proven analytical capability and the ability to clearly articulate complex investment conclusions.
- Experience assessing, appointing and managing external investment managers.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing materials for senior decision-makers.
- A proactive, organised approach with the ability to manage multiple workstreams in a complex environment.
- A collegial and constructive style, with the ability to build effective internal and external relationships.
- A relevant tertiary qualification is preferred.
What we offer
- A dynamic, exciting place to work with a team united by our common purpose of sustainable investment delivering strong returns for all New Zealanders.
- Competitive remuneration package including base salary, discretionary bonus programme, and up to 8% KiwiSaver matching.
- World class professional development, career pathways and job rotation opportunities.
- Comprehensive leave and benefits programme including strong parental leave package and insurance cover.
- Flexible and accessible work environment that reflects our commitment to equity and an inclusive team.
How to apply:
We encourage and welcome applications from people with diverse experience, including applicants interested in discussing flexible work options and those with specific disability needs. As a proudly committed equal opportunity employer, we challenge discrimination and actively work to eliminate bias in our hiring practices. Diversity of experience and diversity of background help us to solve complex problems and deliver on our purpose.
We recognise the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and invest in partnership with a range of Iwi/Māori organisations. We warmly welcome and value Mana Whenua who wish to work with us. We are committed to understanding Te Ao Māori and integrating it into our workplace culture, for the benefit of all future generations in Aotearoa.
Please forward your details in strict confidence by clicking 'apply' below.
