Head of Investment Data Research

Head of Investment Data Research

Our mission starts with you!

Vanguard is one of the world’s largest and most respected investment management companies, known for its client-centric approach, low-cost investment products, and commitment to long-term, data-driven investment strategies. Our Investment Management Product Team is dedicated to developing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients while leveraging the power of data to inform and optimize investment decisions. 

The Head of Investment Data Research will lead the data research function within the Investment Management Product Team, driving the strategy, development, and execution of data-driven research initiatives that enhance Vanguard’s investment products and strategies. This role will be responsible for overseeing the collection, analysis, and application of investment data to support product development, portfolio management, and strategic decision-making across Vanguard’s investment offerings. 

Key Responsibilities:

•  Develop and execute a comprehensive data research strategy that aligns with Vanguard’s investment management goals, focusing on delivering actionable insights that drive product innovation and portfolio performance.
• Oversee the identification, acquisition, and integration of diverse data sources, including market data, alternative data, and proprietary research, to support the development of investment products and strategies. 

Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing team of data scientists, quantitative researchers, and analysts, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 

Work closely with product managers, portfolio managers, and other key stakeholders across Vanguard to ensure data research initiatives are aligned with business needs and investment objectives. 

Drive the exploration and adoption of new data technologies, tools, and methodologies to enhance Vanguard’s data research capabilities and competitive advantage in the investment management industry. 

Ensure the accuracy, reliability, and security of all investment data through robust data governance practices, including data validation, quality control, and compliance with industry regulations. 

Lead the development of advanced analytical models and data-driven insights that inform investment decisions, product development, and client engagement strategies. 

Serve as a thought leader within Vanguard and the broader investment community, representing the firm at industry conferences, publishing research findings, and contributing to thought leadership initiatives. 

Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for the data research function, measuring the impact of data-driven insights on product performance and investment outcomes. 

Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the data research team, leveraging feedback, industry trends, and best practices to refine and enhance research methodologies. 

 Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field; Master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred. 

10+ years of experience in investment data research, quantitative analysis, or a related field, with significant leadership experience in a financial services or investment management environment. 

Deep expertise in data science, quantitative research, and statistical modeling, with proficiency in tools such as Python, R, SQL, and advanced data visualization platforms. 

Extensive knowledge of investment management, including portfolio construction, asset allocation, risk management, and the application of data research to investment strategies. 

Proven track record of leading and developing high-performing teams, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff while fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment. 

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and develop insights that drive investment decisions and product innovation. 

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex research findings to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leadership. 

Demonstrated ability to think strategically and develop long-term plans that align with organizational goals and drive business growth. 

In-depth understanding of the investment management industry, including current trends, challenges, and opportunities, with a focus on the evolving role of data in investment decision-making. 

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Special Factors

Sponsorship

Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.

About Vanguard

We are Vanguard. Together, we’re changing the way the world invests.

For us, investing doesn’t just end in value. It starts with values. Because when you invest with courage, when you invest with clarity, and when you invest with care, you can get so much more in return. We invest with purpose – and that’s how we’ve become a global market leader. Here, we grow by doing the right thing for the people we serve. And so can you.

We want to make success accessible to everyone. This is our opportunity. Let’s make it count.

Inclusion Statement

Vanguard’s continued commitment to diversity and inclusion is firmly rooted in our culture. Every decision we make to best serve our clients, crew (internally employees are referred to as crew), and communities is guided by one simple statement: “Do the right thing.”

We believe that a critical aspect of doing the right thing requires building diverse, inclusive, and highly effective teams of individuals who are as unique as the clients they serve. We empower our crew to contribute their distinct strengths to achieving Vanguard’s core purpose through our values.

When all crew members feel valued and included, our ability to collaborate and innovate is amplified, and we are united in delivering on Vanguard's core purpose.

Our core purpose: To take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.