Investment Analyst

KU Endowment•Lawrence, KS

6h•Onsite

About The Position

KU Endowment is an independent, nonprofit organization and the official fundraising foundation for the University of Kansas. We partner with donors in providing philanthropic support to build a greater KU. The eight-person Investment Office at KU Endowment is responsible for asset allocation, manager research, and risk management for approximately $3.5 billion in investment assets, including $2.5 billion in endowed assets. Endowed assets are managed through a pooled vehicle, the Long-term Investment Program (“LTIP”). In addition to endowed funds, the team is responsible for an expendable, short-term fund, plus defined benefit, defined contribution, planned giving, and other investment assets. Members of the investment team are also co-leading two real estate ventures: a recently opened 200-unit apartment complex in Kansas City, The Hudson, and a 30-acre grocery-anchored mixed-use project in Lawrence, The Crossing at KU. As an employee of KU Endowment, you’ll witness firsthand the power of our donors’ generosity. You will join a talented and fun group of people who are inspired to help KU through the support of loyal alumni and friends. This support fuels excellence, enabling students and faculty to develop innovative programs and research that distinguish the university. We connect the philanthropic passions of donors with the needs of students, faculty and programs – and everyone benefits. People are engaged. Purpose is ignited. Lives are changed. Reporting to the Head of Private Investments, this role will primarily support the oversight of >$700 million private equity and venture capital portfolio. However, the analyst may also contribute as a generalist across other asset classes, supporting two investment directors who are responsible for public equities, credit, and alternative strategies. The Investment Analyst will play an integral role in portfolio analysis, manager due diligence, and ongoing monitoring of investment managers. Together with the Head of Private Investments, the analyst will lead the selection and implementation of new analytical tools and resources to enhance Endowment’s private markets program. While the primary focus is on investment-related responsibilities, the analyst may also support back-office functions as needed. The individual in this position is expected to embrace KU Endowment’s stated core values – collaboration, curiosity, empowerment, and excellence – and demonstrate support for them through professional interactions and activities.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field.
Candidates should have 1–5 years of relevant experience in institutional asset management, ideally within an endowment, foundation, pension fund, family office, OCIO, consultant, investment management firm, or investment banking environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Office Suite tools is expected.
Possession or progression toward Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA).

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and applications is a plus.
Strong passion for financial markets and investing, with excellent oral and written communication skills.
Solid foundation in corporate finance and valuation and can apply quantitative analysis to develop investment theses and communicate insights clearly.
Intellectually curious, with critical reasoning skills and sound judgment, and consistently ask thoughtful, insightful questions.
Motivated self-starter and problem-solver who delivers high-quality work under tight deadlines and with minimal supervision.
Thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
Work effectively as part of a small, diverse, and collaborative team, contributing to a collegial and professional culture.
Adaptable and responsive to changing priorities, often contributing beyond the direct scope of their responsibilities.
Demonstrate high moral character and professionalism in all interactions, both internally and externally.
Strong aptitude for quantitative analysis and data interpretation as well as the internal drive to experiment with new AI tools.

Responsibilities

Assist in sourcing, screening, and evaluating private equity and venture capital managers by conducting both quantitative and qualitative due diligence, including performance analysis and reference calls.
Monitor investment performance, exposures, and risk metrics across private investments, and maintain internal databases and dashboards to track pipeline activity and highlight trends.
Prepare performance reports, benchmarking studies, and contribute to the preparation of materials for Investment Committee meetings.
Conduct thematic and market research on macroeconomic trends, industry developments, and emerging investment strategies relevant to private markets.
Identify and implement process improvements and technology solutions to enhance investment workflows, data management, and reporting capabilities.
Support asset allocation modeling, liquidity forecasting, and commitment pacing analysis to inform portfolio construction and strategic planning.
Occasional travel may be required for manager meetings, site visits, or industry events.
Regular and reliable attendance is essential for this position.
Perform other duties as assigned.