Operations Analyst

Princeton University Investment Company (Princo) is widely recognized as an innovative leader in the investment management industry. We manage Princeton University’s $36.4 billion Endowment through a global network of top-tier investment firms that span both traditional and alternative asset classes such as public equities, private equity and venture capital, hedge funds and real estate. We seek to achieve outstanding long-term investment returns in support of the University’s financial aid, teaching, and research mission.

Princo staff consists of approximately 50 individuals who conduct activities across investment, operations, technology, and administrative functions. Princo is organizationally distinct from the University, but members of Princo staff are University employees subject to Princeton University policies and procedures.

The Endowment provides critical support of Princeton University’s mission to be a world-class research and higher education institution. The returns on the Endowment generate about two-thirds of the University’s net annual operating revenues and help fund the University’s highest priority strategic initiatives, such as major investments in bioengineering, quantum science, and artificial intelligence. Notably, the investment program’s strength has allowed the University to initiate and expand its pioneering financial aid program. The University is able to admit students without regard to their financial circumstances, and its financial aid program makes it possible for students to graduate with no debt.  

The Operations Team at Princeton University Investment Company is responsible for supporting the investment operations of Princeton's endowment. The team is seeking a candidate to account for capital distributions, market values, review financial statements related to its portfolio of investments, and conduct various aspects of operational due diligence.

Accordingly, the candidate must have a strong understanding of the annual reporting cycle and internal control framework of an investment company; from the development of journal entries, proper segregation of duties, through to the sign off of audited financial statements. Candidate must also have the ability to analyze the financial statements of investment companies, conduct operational due diligence, and report to senior management on operational risks, weaknesses and/or deficiencies. Candidate must have the ability to research and report on new developments in the accounting field involving investment companies and to assess the impact on buy side investors.

Responsibilities:

• Process cash and security movements for Level I, II and Level III assets
• Reconcile internal records with custodial bank
• Identify and process investment valuations across global accounting standards
• Evaluate appropriateness of valuation methodologies and conclusions
• Perform month end closing procedures
• Research and reconcile partner statements and financials with internal records and agreements
• Compile and analyze financial information for year-end reporting
• Review financials/reporting of investment companies and identify SEC, GAAP or IFRS compliance
• Identify and interpret financial and operational risk
• Work closely and liaise with colleagues within and outside the department
• Calculate carried interest payments and reserve accruals
• Assist in vendor management and platform development
• Assist in continuing efforts to improve operational efficiency

Essential Qualifications:

• BA, preferably in accounting, finance or equivalent
• Strong work ethic
• Great attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to be flexible and work well in a small team environment
• Must possess strong mathematical and reasoning abilities
• Experience and fluency in Microsoft Office applications and relational database management
• Comfortable with automation and seeking workflow improvements [process and technology]
• Strong organizational abilities and ability to multi-task

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1-2 years previous experience in an accounting role through a mix of full time, part time or internship experience, preferably in a financial services firm
• CPA or CFA a plus

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.