WHO ARE WE?
Castlefield is an award-winning, employee-owned investment management and financial planning group based in Manchester. As a genuine specialist, ethical considerations have always been core to Castlefield’s ethos and client proposition. Since 2002, we have helped individuals, families and not-for-profit organisations make informed values-led financial decisions that reflect both their long-term objectives and personal priorities.
What sets us apart is that we help clients to define what ethical investing means to them, and then translate those values into real world financial outcomes.
Our proprietary Thoughtful Investor® approach blends rigorous financial analysis with non‑financial sustainability factors (which are benchmarked, and independently verified), to help clients express their investment preferences and align with their values.
Employee ownership gives us a long-term perspective, aligning our success with that of our clients, colleagues and wider stakeholders, while maintaining the personal service that has helped define Castlefield for more than two decades.
THE ROLE
Job summary:
We are looking for an experienced investment professional to play a key role in shaping and delivering our values-led investment proposition.
This is an opportunity to play a key role within a highly regarded investment team, contributing directly to the management of Castlefield’s multi-asset Portfolio Funds and model portfolios.
Working closely with the Head of Investment Management and wider team, you will undertake proprietary investment research, contribute to portfolio construction and asset allocation decisions, engage with 3rd party and in-house fund managers and company management teams and help develop our approach as The Thoughtful Investor®.
This role offers significant exposure across investment management, research, stewardship, client engagement and business development activity.
Team: Investment Management
Reports to: Head of Investment Management
Location: Manchester. Candidates must be within commutable distance of the office. Hybrid working available.
Hours: Full time (36.25 pw) - will consider part time
Planned start date: as soon as possible
Salary: up to £65,000 depending on experience
Some of the responsibilities are listed below:
- play a substantial role in the co-management of our multi-asset collective Portfolio Funds and range of model portfolios
- assist with the management and implementation of our aligned individual clients’ portfolios
- undertake and lead proprietary research into collective funds, individual securities and other asset classes
- contribute to asset allocation and portfolio construction decisions
- help shape and develop Castlefield’s valued – led investment proposition
- generate investment ideas and contribute to stewardship and investment engagement activities
- present to colleagues and external investors on the Portfolio Funds and range of model portfolios
What success looks like
Over the first 12–24 months, the successful candidate will:
- establish themselves as a trusted contributor to portfolio construction and investment decision-making
- take ownership of research across key areas of the investment universe
- make a significant contribution to the ongoing development of Castlefield's values-led investment proposition
- support the delivery of strong risk-adjusted returns across funds and portfolios
- enhance Castlefield's stewardship, engagement and voting activities
- become a confident ambassador for Castlefield when engaging with clients, intermediaries and industry peers
Before you apply
Please note:
- this role is based in Manchester and candidates must be within commutable distance of our office
- a cover letter is required and applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered
- we do not use AI to screen applications. Every application is reviewed by a member of our team, so candidates are encouraged to take the time to explain why they would be a good fit for the role and for Castlefield's culture and values by attaching cover letter
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO JOIN US?
- You’ll have a Level 4 qualification (ideally IMC) and be part way through your CFA
- You’ll have experience in portfolio management and have strong understanding of multi - asset portfolio construction and management
- You’ll be comfortable analysing investment opportunities across different asset classes
- You’ll demonstrate excellent attention to detail and analytical skills
- You’ll communicate complex investment concepts clearly to a wide range of audiences
- You’ll be committed to applying The Thoughtful Investor® approach, recognising that investment decisions should reflect both financial considerations and the broader impact of capital allocation
WHY JOIN US?
We offer a great work environment along with other benefits:
- structured learning and development through the Castlefield Academy Programme, alongside financial support towards professional qualifications
- A transparent and consistent approach to career development through which you’ll be able to develop your technical knowledge and interpersonal skills
- the opportunity to become a co-owner in an employee-owned business, with a genuine voice in shaping our future and sharing in our collective success
- a collaborative culture where employee involvement, accountability and long-term thinking are valued
- a contributory pension scheme
- up to 30 days' annual leave
- hybrid working, combining office and home-based working
- an NHS top-up cash plan that helps with the cost of everyday healthcare expenses
You are expected to follow the FCA Conduct Rules:
- you must act with integrity
- you must act with due skill, care and diligence
- you must be open and co-operative with the FCA, PRA and other regulators
- you must pay due regard to the interests of customers and treat them fairly
- you must observe proper standards of market conduct
Castlefield strives to be an inclusive business and we welcome applications from candidates who share our values and our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Right to work
Successful applicants will be required to demonstrate their right to work in the UK before employment commences. Unfortunately, Castlefield is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role at this time
Pay: Up to £65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Free flu jabs
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Work from home
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Manchester M1 1FN: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work Location: In person