Principal Investment Officer at Public Service Superannuation Scheme

Job Description

Duties and responsibilities at this level will entail;

• Monitoring the implementation of investment strategy and performance of theasset portfolio of the Scheme and recommend areas of review:
•  Initiate development, implementation and review of policies, regulations, strategies, guidelines and programmes pertaining to investments of the scheme:
• Carrying out research and feasibility studies on potential investment opportunities and options in consultation with the Fund Manager;
• Developing investment strategies for the Scheme;
• Monitoring investment market trends to ensure maximization of returns on
• investment in Consultation with the Fund Manager;
• Identifying potential risks on the Scheme’s investments and recommend intervention measures;
• Setting up and maintaining investment records and database;
• Designing strategies for diversification of the Scheme’s investments in consultation with the Fund Manager;
• Verifying records pertaining to the investment in terms of property and asset development;
• Designing strategies for protection of investments and expansion of capital plough-back for the Scheme;
• Analysing periodic reports from the Fund Manager on investment for the benefit of Scheme members;
• Facilitate constant updates that are insightful and informative on economic trends.
• Monitor custodian activity with the aim of ensuring all investment returns are received and that asset records are up to date.
• Identify and review potential risks on the Schemes investments and recommend intervention measures;
• Fast track release of funds from the Custodian to the Fund Manager for investment;
• Ensure establishment, maintenance and safe custody of records and data base pertaining to all the Scheme’s investments;
• Ensure compliance and data security within the department:
• Preparing periodic reports on the Schemes investments;
• Preparing work plans and setting performance targets;

Requirement for appointment

For appointment to this grade a candidate must have: -

Education and Experience

•  A minimum period of eight (8) years in relevant work experience and at least three (3) years of which should be in supervisory role in investment management, preferably in the pension fund industry or a related field;
• Bachelor's degree in any of the following fields: - Finance, Economics, Actuarial Science, Commerce, Finance, Business Administration or any other relevant qualifications from a recognized institution;
• Master’s Degree in any of the following fields: - Economics, Actuarial Science, Finance, Business Administration or any other relevant qualifications from a recognized institution;
• Professional qualification or pursuing Professional Qualification as a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CIFA or its equivalence
• Registered membership of a recognized professional body
• Proficiency in computer application skills;

Investment Knowledge

• Professional competence and administrative capability for effective coordination of the investment and property administration function
• In-depth understanding of pension fund investment strategies, asset allocation, risk management, and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in analysing and evaluating investment opportunities across various asset classes, such as equities, fixed income, alternative investments, and real estate.
• Ability to stay up-to-date with market trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes affecting pension fund investments.
• Proven track record of successfully managing investment portfolios and achieving strong returns.

Leadership and Communication:

• Management training from a recognized institution 
• Supervisory skills with the ability to effectively manage a team of investment professionals
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively communicate investment strategies, performance, and risks to stakeholders, including pension fund trustees, management, and external partners.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with external investment managers, consultants, and other relevant industry professionals.
• Thorough understanding of national goals, policies and objectives and ability to relate them to the core business of the Scheme; and, Meets the requirements of Chapter six (6) of the Constitution.

Analytical and Presentation Skills:

• Analytical skills to conduct in-depth investment research, due diligence, and risk analysis.
• Proven ability to develop investment strategies that align with the long-term objectives of the pension fund.
• Ability to develop and present reports based on thorough analysis and risk assessment to inform investment decisions

Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge:

• Understanding of relevant investment regulations, pension fund governance, and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Experience in ensuring compliance with applicable investment guidelines, reporting requirements, and regulatory frameworks.
• Familiarity with pension fund accounting practices and reporting standards.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning:

• Ability to adapt to changing market conditions and adjust investment strategies accordingly.
• Eagerness to stay updated with industry best practices, emerging trends, and new investment instruments.
• Willingness to continuously enhance professional knowledge and skills through professional development opportunities.