VP, Model Specialist

Franklin Templeton•St. Petersburg, FL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Franklin Templeton, we’re advancing our industry forward by developing new and innovative ways to help our clients achieve their investment goals. Our dynamic firm spans asset management, wealth management, and fintech, offering many ways to help investors make progress toward their goals. Our talented teams working around the globe bring expertise that’s both broad and unique. From our welcoming, inclusive, and flexible culture to our global and diverse business, we provide opportunities to help you reach your potential while helping our clients reach theirs. Come join us in delivering better outcomes for our clients around the world! The Model Specialist is part of the US Distribution (USD) Product team and is matrixed to Wealth Management Divisional Sales Leaders of the Specialist’s coverage area and maintains strong connectivity with: Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions (FTIS) for strategy insights, portfolio construction, and model portfolio updates and positioning Market Leaders & National Accounts for advisor enablement and client coverage This hybrid role combines investment fluency, client consulting, and commercial acumen, making it central to FT’s advisor-centric distribution strategy. The Model Specialist plays a critical, hybrid client-facing role within USD. This specialist acts as a bridge between FTIS investment capabilities, and the portfolio needs of financial advisors. The Model Specialist supports Market Leaders, DSMs and RIA teams by providing expert guidance on portfolio design, model implementation, and investment strategy education. This role is particularly focused on: Articulating and positioning FTIS’ investment models Assisting financial advisors who operate as portfolio managers (Rep-as-PM) with portfolio construction guidance and education on FTIS investment models Delivering FTIS customized model portfolios and analytics for high-net-worth clients and institutions Identifying opportunities for FTIS investment models by building relationships with firm Centers of Influence

Requirements

7+ years in portfolio consulting, investment product, or model strategy
Strong technical understanding of multi‑asset portfolio construction, investment vehicles (mutual funds, ETFs, SMAs), and capital markets
FINRA Series 7 and 63
Ability to travel 20–25%
Proficiency with analytics and planning tools (e.g., Morningstar, PAT, Excel)
Strong communication and ability to simplify complex concepts

Nice To Haves

CFA, CIMA, or CAIA preferred

Responsibilities

Thought Leadership & Education You will deliver portfolio construction guidance rooted in FTIS and Institute’s capital markets outlook.
You will educate financial advisors and internal sales teams on FTIS model portfolios.
You will conduct advisor workshops, due diligence meetings, and portfolio reviews.
Model Portfolio Support You will support geographic coverage across multiple channels.
You will engage with advisors using in‑person, phone, and screen‑share interactions.
You will become an expert in FTIS allocation views and positioning.
You will prepare and deliver presentations on model portfolios.
You will stay informed on market trends and investment strategies.
You will collaborate with advisors to drive adoption of portfolios.
You will ensure communications meet regulatory and risk requirements.
You will work with marketing, sales, and operations.
You will contribute toward a shared FTIS model sales goal.
Rep‑as‑PM Enablement You will consult with advisors to review and enhance their models.
You will provide diagnostics and analysis using PAT (Portfolio Analytics Tool).
You will offer guidance on portfolio design.
Custom Model Construction You will support customized proposals for large opportunities.
You will integrate FT products, including Canvas and alternatives.
You will collaborate with FTIS portfolio managers and sales partners.

Benefits

Along with base compensation, employees are eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, a 401(k) plan with a generous match, and recognition rewards.
We also offer a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a range of competitive healthcare options, insurance, and disability benefits, employee stock investment program, learning resources, career development programs, reimbursement for certain education expenses, paid time off (vacation / holidays / sick / leave / parental & caregiving leave / bereavement / volunteering / floating holidays) and a motivational wellbeing program.
Three weeks paid time off the first year
Medical, dental and vision insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan with 85% company match on your pre-tax and/or Roth contributions, up to the IRS limits
Employee Stock Investment Program
Tuition Assistance Program
Purchase of company funds with no sales charge
Onsite fitness center and recreation center
Onsite cafeteria