Applications

We are currently accepting applications for the 2012-2013 Equity Analysts! Please submit all application research reports by e-mail to Howard Nemiroff (howard_nemiroff@carleton.ca), including the cover sheet below and the research report, by midnight on Monday January 23rd. Interviews will be taking place later that week for the successful applicants.

All applicants please attach this cover sheet when you submit your reports.

What are the eligibility requirements for The Fund @ Sprott members?

The only mandatory requirement to be considered for inclusion is you must be enrolled at the Sprott School of Business. Most applicants are typically in the Finance stream of the Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of International Business.

How are the successful applicants selected?

Recruitment is a two-step process in which all applicants will demonstrate their knowledge through a written research report and a 20 minute interview. Initially, the research reports will be evaluated by a panel of returning students overseeing the recruitment process. The panel will then select the top students for a 20 minute interview. The interview usually focuses on basic macroeconomic questions and discussions of current issues affecting the North American financial markets, as well as the written report. Upon completion of the interviews, the recruitment decisions will be made and the successful applicants will be notified.

What are the requirements for the research reports?

We are looking for a professional ‘style’ report that gives a buy/hold/sell recommendation on a firm in the TSX 60. Examples of the format we’re looking for can be found on our Research Page (most recent year). A good report will not be shallow or overly optimistic; it will also include all calculations used in determining a target price, and above all else, there will be NO PLAGIARISM – sources are required. We understand that the reports will reflect your knowledge base up to the level of courses you have completed and this will be considered when evaluating the report.

What specifically is the recruiting panel looking for?

There are three key elements we look for when recruiting:

Knowledge: While we do have a training program to bring new recruits up to speed, we expect new members to have a solid fundamental understanding of financial markets and the forces that move them. This must be demonstrated in both the report and the interview.
Commitment: The Fund meets once per week from late September through April and it is expected that members can attend all meetings. We traditionally meet once a week for about two hours (the exact time will depend on the class schedules of members). Members must be able to make a full time commitment to the fund for at least two semesters, but the longer you can contribute for the better. All things equal, preference is given to the student that can commit to a period for longer than one year and who is also available once a week during the summer months.
Interpersonal Skills: The Fund is a team environment and it is imperative that members can work efficiently in this type of setting; the panel will strive to put together a cohesive team. It is also expected that members act as ambassadors of the fund while on campus as well as at competitions and at industry social events.

What is the workload like for new members?

Analysts are expected to contribute analysis on up to three research reports per semester, as well as stay current on financial events. Most members in the past have not had any trouble juggling this extra commitment with a full course load, but you must be able to plan your time wisely.

What can I do to better prepare myself for the recruitment process?

It is important to stay on top if current financial events and to spend time learning things that you are currently not familiar with. There are many different mediums available to accomplish this: Television, internet, magazines, and books. See our Useful Resources page for a list of ones we recommend.

What are the benefits of joining the The Fund @ Sprott?

Some of the benefits of joining The Fund @ Sprott include:

Hands-on money management experience that you can add to your resumé.
Opportunity to build a network of industry professionals and Alumni of The Fund (See Alumni Page).
Opportunity to build strong connections with current fund members who will one day become industry professionals.
Training and mentorship that will teach you how to think like a real financial analyst.
Improve presentation skills as members must pitch and defend their recommendations.
Opportunities to team up with other Fund members for case competitions.
Chance to help on larger extra-curricular research projects.

If I have a co-op work term scheduled this year can I still join?

Yes you can. Co-op does not disqualify you from being able to join. However, it is still a requirement that members are able to attend the weekly meetings and that must be worked out between you and your employer.