Investment Counsellor (IC)

Role Summary

The Investment Counsellor (IC) plays a pivotal role in delivering investment advisory services to the firm's high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients. Working alongside Relationship Managers (RMs), the IC designs, recommends, and monitors bespoke investment portfolios across asset classes. The role requires strong product knowledge, client engagement skills, and adherence to DFSA's regulatory standards under the Conduct of Business (COB) and General (GEN) modules.

Key Responsibilities Client Advisory & Portfolio Management

• Provide tailored investment advice to clients under non-discretionary mandates in line with DFSA suitability and appropriateness rules.
• Conduct client risk profiling, investment objective analysis, and asset allocation planning.
• Prepare investment proposals, product rationales, and portfolio reviews.
• Deliver regular performance updates, market insights, and tactical allocation ideas.
• Collaborate with Relationship Managers to enhance client engagement and retention.

Investment Strategy & Research

• Contribute to the EAM's investment house view, tactical calls, and approved product lists.
• Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of funds, ETFs, structured products, and alternative investments.
• Liaise with custodian banks and external research providers for execution and product support.
• Prepare investment notes and commentaries for internal and client circulation.

Compliance & DFSA Regulatory Responsibilities

• Ensure all advice and communication comply with DFSA COB and GEN requirements, including suitability, best execution, and disclosure obligations.
• Maintain full documentation of client meetings, advice rationale, and investment recommendations.
• Adhere to AML/CFT, client classification, and conflicts of interest policies.
• Support internal and DFSA reviews as required.

Collaboration & Operational Support

• Work closely with the Senior Executive Officer (SEO) and Compliance Officer/Money Laundering Reporting Officer (CO/MLRO) to ensure full regulatory adherence.
• Assist with client onboarding, KYC updates, and suitability assessments.
• Coordinate with operations and custodian teams to ensure accurate trade execution and reporting.
• Participate in periodic investment committee and product due diligence meetings.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in finance, Economics, or related discipline; CFA, CAIA, FRM or CWM designation preferred.
• 5-10 years of experience in investment advisory, private banking, or external asset management.
• Strong understanding of DFSA framework, particularly COB, GEN, and AML modules.
• Proven track record managing HNW/UHNW client portfolios in an advisory capacity.
• Excellent knowledge of financial instruments - mutual funds, structured notes, fixed income, equities, and alternatives.
• Proficiency in portfolio analysis tools (Bloomberg, Morningstar, or similar)