Alternative investment firms like hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, real estate and infrastructure require specialized recruiters to source qualified candidates. These alternative investment recruiters have deep networks and market knowledge to identify professionals with the required experience. They use recruiting strategies like direct sourcing, networking events, referrals and online tools to build talent pools of portfolio managers, analysts, traders and back office experts to meet the hiring needs of alternative asset managers. This article will examine the role alternative investment recruiters play in staffing top alternative investment firms around the world.
Networking and referrals are key alternative investment recruiting tactics
Many alternative investment recruiters rely on extensive personal and professional networks developed over years working with hedge funds, private equity firms and other industry players. They leverage these connections to source potential candidates who may be open to new opportunities but aren’t actively job searching. Recruiters also encourage clients and candidates to provide referrals, which can shortcut the sourcing process. A referral from a trusted source serves as a credibility boost when reaching out to prospective hires.
Direct sourcing taps into passive candidates
Beyond networking and referrals, savvy alternative investment recruiters source potential hires directly through proprietary databases, online profiles, association memberships, publications and conference attendance. They take a targeted approach to identify qualified individuals who aren’t actively job searching but may consider a new role for the right opportunity.
Online postings attract active job seekers
While alternative investment recruiters spend significant time networking and directly sourcing less visible candidates, they also use job boards, LinkedIn and social media to attract active job seekers. Highlighting the firm’s brand, culture and opportunity can entice investment professionals to pursue a role.
Headhunting draws star performers
For ultra competitive searches at prestigious alternative asset managers, a headhunter approach is often required. Recruiters focus on wooing star portfolio managers, research analysts and C-suite leaders from competitor firms through discreet outreach and appealing to their ambitions.
Securing the best talent takes industry expertise
Successful alternative investment recruiters combine networking skills with a deep understanding of the hedge fund, private equity and venture capital talent landscape. They remain up to date on industry compensation trends and emerging firms to advise both managers and candidates on optimal moves.
Alternative investment recruiters employ a range of traditional and specialized sourcing techniques to identify and attract top professionals to selective openings at asset management firms. Their networks, industry expertise and recruiting savvy enable alternative firms to secure the talent necessary to drive performance.