Research Associate

Description

Dowling & Partners is widely recognized as a leading source of insurance equity research. In addition to providing comprehensive industry research and analysis, Dowling & Partners advises clients on capital markets activities and strategic initiatives within the insurance sector.

We are seeking a Research Associate to support our research team across the insurance coverage universe.  This is an apprentice-style role designed for individuals who want to learn the craft of equity research from experienced professionals.

During your first year, you will learn how to build and maintain financial models, analyze public company filings, evaluate industry trends, and communicate investment ideas through written research.  Associates who excel in this role have the opportunity to progress toward publishing their own research. 

Why should you join our Dowling team? 

At Dowling, you won't be fetching coffee or building pitch books.

You will be immersed in the numbers from day one, working directly with experienced analysts and gaining exposure to publicly traded insurance companies, financial markets, and institutional investors.

Benefits and Perks

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
• Company contributions to your Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Company-paid Basic Life Insurance, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Immediate eligibility for the Company's 401 (k) plan 
• Eligibility to participate in the company's Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after one year of employment
• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Reimbursement for select gym and fitness memberships
• Annual bonus opportunity
• Daily lunch provided
• On-site coffee, snacks and beverages
• On-site golf simulator

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain quarterly and annual financial models for covered companies
• Update models following earnings releases, guidance changes, and management commentary
• Gather, organize, and analyze information from public filings, including:  10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, proxy statements, statutory filings
• Draft portions of earnings notes, industry reports, and research publications for senior analyst review
• Track industry data and develop supporting exhibits, charts, and tables 
• Prepare  materials for client calls, marketing trips, and conference meetings
• Respond to inbound client data requests and ad hoc screening questions
• Listen to earnings calls and management meetings; produce clean, usable notes
• Monitor industry developments and company-specific news relevant to coverage

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, or other quantitative discipline
• 0-2 years of relevant experience; recent graduates and former interns are encouraged to apply
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to build and maintain financial models
• Understanding of three primary financial statements and how they interact
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Willingness to work additional hours during earnings season as business needs require
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a small team environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship or work experience in:  Equity Research, Investment Banking, Asset Management, Insurance, Accounting, or Finance
• Experience using FactSet, S&P Capital IQ, Bloomberg, or similar financial databases
• CFA Level 1 candidate or completed CFA Level 1 examination