When we launched the Point72 Academy, our investment analyst training program, 10 years ago, we took a bold step to reimagine the industry’s traditional hiring model by building a talent pipeline. Our approach draws not only from universities but also from experienced professionals, enriching our team with a wide range of perspectives and skills.
Jaimi Goodfriend, Head of Investment Professional Development and Point72 Academy Director, recently reflected on the Academy’s journey on AIMA’s Long/Short podcast. The Academy began with just 10 students, and has since grown to attract nearly 50 full-time participants annually across 10 of our offices in five countries. More than 200 Academy graduates have earned analyst roles with Point72.1
Here are some key takeaways from her discussion:
- On the Academy’s origins: “In 2015, our founder Steve Cohen had a vision that we should think about talent in a new way. Maybe the best and brightest weren’t always going straight from undergrad to Wall Street anymore.”
- What we look for in candidates: “I always say that I look for the unteachable qualities… We look for people with strong work ethics…. People who are analytical… but also people who are really curious…you have to be a critical thinker.”
- The importance of process over outcome: “The market can reward bad decisions and punish good ones in the short term but learning how to evaluate your process independently of the results is the most difficult thing to do. And this is why I think mentorship is helpful.”
- On Point72’s development culture: “We have a mentorship program when you’re in the Academy. We have a mentorship program after the Academy. You’re expected to be a mentor once you feel you’re ready. It’s not like a statement, it’s just an unspoken way that this firm works. And I love that about this place.”
- Career advice for aspiring investment professionals: “It’s a career, not a job. You have to be passionate about this business because if you are, you’ll work harder. You’ll take the feedback better. You will be persistent in your pursuit of being great at this because of your passion for it.”
Check out the full podcast episode across platforms:
Spotify | Apple | Amazon Music
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1 As of 12/1/2024