20 Parametric Portfolio Associates Interview Questions and Answers

Parametric Portfolio Associates LLC is an investment management firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. The firm provides a variety of services, including portfolio construction, risk management, and strategic asset allocation.

If you’re interviewing for a job at Parametric Portfolio Associates, you can expect to be asked a mix of questions about your experience, qualifications, and goals. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of sample Parametric Portfolio Associates interview questions and answers.

Parametric Portfolio Associates Interview Process

The interview process at Parametric Portfolio Associates is generally positive, with most reviewers finding it to be conversational and not too technical. However, the process can be lengthy, sometimes taking up to three weeks. Additionally, some reviewers found the second round of interviews to be more difficult, with questions focusing on technical skills and knowledge.

1. Do you have a background in finance?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your skills and experience are a good fit for this role. If you don’t have a finance background, consider what other experiences you have that may be relevant to this position.

Example: “I studied economics in college, so I have some knowledge of financial concepts. However, my primary focus was on business management, which has helped me develop strong organizational and communication skills. My previous job as an analyst required me to analyze data and create reports based on those findings. This work gave me valuable insight into how to use data to make informed decisions about investments.”

2. What is your experience with the Bloomberg Terminal?

The Bloomberg Terminal is a software program that financial professionals use to monitor and analyze market trends. Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience using the terminal, as it’s an important tool for this role. In your answer, explain what you know about the Bloomberg Terminal and how often you’ve used it in the past.

Example: “I have extensive experience with the Bloomberg Terminal. I worked at my previous company for three years, where we used the terminal daily. I am familiar with all of its features and functions, including how to access real-time data and perform research on companies. I also understand how to use the terminal to create reports and communicate with other portfolio associates.”

3. How do you think the financial industry will change over the next 5 years?

This question can help an interviewer understand your knowledge of the financial industry and how you might fit into it. Use this opportunity to show that you are aware of current trends in the financial world and have a plan for adapting to them.

Example: “I think we will see more automation in the financial sector, especially when it comes to portfolio management. I believe there is still room for human input in the process, but technology could be used to streamline many aspects of portfolio management. For example, artificial intelligence could be used to analyze data and make predictions about investment performance.”

4. Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult client, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether or not you have experience working with clients. Use examples from your previous work to show that you know how to resolve conflicts and keep a client happy.

Example: “In my last role, I had a client who was very demanding. They would call me several times a day asking for updates on their portfolio. I learned that they were just nervous about investing and wanted reassurance. So, I started sending them weekly reports on their progress instead of daily ones. This helped them feel more comfortable and gave them something to look forward to each week.”

5. Describe a time where you worked on a project that was outside of your area of expertise, how did you approach it?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach challenges and whether or not you have experience working outside of your comfort zone. Use examples from previous roles to describe a time when you had to learn something new, apply that knowledge and succeed in your task.

Example: “In my last role as a portfolio associate, I was tasked with creating a financial plan for a client who wanted to invest in real estate. Although I had no prior experience investing in real estate, I researched the topic extensively and learned about different types of investments, including REITs and private equity funds. After learning more about these investment opportunities, I created a financial plan for my client that included several real estate options.”

6. Have you ever had a conflict with a co-worker or manager and if so, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle interpersonal conflicts and whether or not you have any experience resolving them. Use examples from your past to show that you are able to resolve conflict in a professional manner.

Example: “In my last role, I had a disagreement with one of my managers about the best way to complete a task. Rather than speaking up right away, I waited until we were alone to discuss it with her so she could understand why I was doing things differently. She appreciated my willingness to compromise and together, we came up with a solution that worked for both of us.”

7. Why do you want to work at Parametric Portfolio Associates?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are a good fit for their company. Use your answer to highlight any personal or professional values that align with Parametric Portfolio Associates, such as teamwork, innovation or creativity.

Example: “I want to work at Parametric Portfolio Associates because I am passionate about helping clients achieve financial success. In my last role, I helped a client who was looking to invest in stocks learn more about how to do so. She had never invested before, but she trusted me enough to give it a try. After working with her over several months, she is now confident enough to invest on her own.”

8. Can you tell me about a time when you were given an assignment that required more hours than anticipated, what did you do?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle unexpected challenges and what your response was to them. Use examples from previous roles that show you are willing to work hard when needed, but also prioritize your personal life.

Example: “In my last role as a parametric portfolio associate, I had an assignment that required me to stay late one night to complete it. While I would have preferred to leave at 5 p.m., I stayed until 7 p.m. to ensure I completed the task correctly. I knew that staying later than expected wouldn’t impact my ability to get in early the next day, so I prioritized completing the project over leaving on time.”

9. What are some skills you have that would make you a good fit for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of skills that are relevant to the position. Choose two or three skills from your list and explain how they would help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I have excellent communication skills, which I think is important for this role because it’s my job to communicate with clients. I also have experience working as part of a team, so I know how to collaborate with others on projects. Finally, I am highly organized, which helps me stay on top of my work.”

10. Have you worked in a fast paced environment before? If so, describe a typical day.

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of how you might fit in with their company. If you haven’t worked in a fast-paced environment before, consider describing what your ideal workday would look like and why it appeals to you.

Example: “I have worked in a fast-paced environment for most of my career, so I’m used to working under pressure. In my last role as a portfolio associate, I was responsible for creating portfolios that met clients’ needs while also meeting our company’s standards. This meant I had to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. My typical day involved checking emails first thing in the morning to see if there were any urgent requests from clients or managers. Then, I would begin working on the task at hand.”

11. What types of software programs are you familiar with?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine your comfort level with using software programs that are used in the finance industry. If you have experience working with specific types of software, be sure to mention them during your answer.

Example: “I am familiar with several different types of software programs and can use each one effectively. I’ve worked with Microsoft Excel for over five years now, so I’m very comfortable creating spreadsheets and analyzing data within them. I also know how to use Google Sheets, which is a great tool for collaborating on projects with other team members. In my previous role, I was responsible for managing our company’s database program, so I am confident using any type of database management system.”

12. What is your experience working with clients?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with client service and how you interact with others. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.

Example: “I have worked in a customer service role for five years now, so I am used to working with clients on a daily basis. In my current position as a portfolio associate, I regularly speak with clients about their portfolios and what they want to achieve. I also answer any questions they may have about our company or financial services we provide. My favorite part of this job is helping clients find solutions to their problems.”

13. Are you comfortable working with numbers?

This question is a good way to determine if you have the necessary skills for this role. Employers ask it because they want to know that you can work with numbers and understand financial concepts. In your answer, try to show that you are comfortable working with numbers and can do calculations quickly.

Example: “I am very comfortable working with numbers. I’ve always been good at math, so I enjoy using my skills in my job. When I was in school, I took several advanced placement classes, including calculus and statistics. This helped me learn more about how to use numbers to make predictions and forecasts.”

14. Give an example of a time when you had to use data analysis to solve a problem.

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your analytical skills and how you use them to solve problems. Use examples from previous jobs or describe a time when you used data analysis in school to solve a problem.

Example: “At my last job, I was tasked with creating a portfolio for an investor who wanted to invest in companies that were environmentally friendly. However, there are many companies that claim to be green but aren’t actually eco-friendly. To find these companies, I researched all of the publicly traded companies on the stock exchange and analyzed their financial reports. This helped me create a list of companies that were truly eco-friendly.”

15. What type of information would you need to analyze data?

This question can help the interviewer understand your analytical skills and how you would use them to complete tasks in this role. Use examples from past experience that show your ability to analyze data, interpret information and make decisions based on what you learn.

Example: “In my last position as a portfolio associate, I was responsible for analyzing client portfolios to determine if they were meeting their investment goals. To do this, I used several different types of information, including financial statements, market trends and performance reports. I also reviewed client communication records to ensure they understood our recommendations and had any questions answered.”

16. What do you consider to be the most important part of portfolio administration?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the role and how you would perform it. Your answer should include a description of what you consider important, as well as why that element is so vital to the job.

Example: “I believe the most important part of portfolio administration is communication. It’s essential for me to be able to communicate with my team members about any changes I make to the portfolios or when there are new developments in the market. This helps ensure everyone has access to the same information and can act accordingly. Communication also allows me to receive feedback from my colleagues on my work and learn from their experiences.”

17. Provide an example of a time when you provided excellent customer service.

Customer service is an important part of working in finance, and employers ask this question to make sure you have experience providing quality customer service. Use your answer to explain a time when you helped a client or colleague with their financial needs. Show the interviewer that you can be helpful and friendly.

Example: “I once had a client who was looking for a new investment strategy because they were unhappy with their current portfolio. I spent several hours researching different strategies and comparing them based on risk tolerance and other factors. In the end, I found a new investment strategy that met all of my client’s criteria. They were so happy with my help that they referred me to two of their friends.”

18. Would you say you are a detail oriented person?

This question is a great way to determine how much attention to detail you have. Employers ask this question because they want to know that you can handle the responsibilities of their role and ensure accuracy in your work. In your answer, try to show that you are organized and meticulous about your work.

Example: “Yes, I would say I am quite detail oriented. Throughout my career, I’ve had many opportunities to work with data and numbers. This has helped me develop an eye for details and ensured that I was always working as accurately as possible. I also pride myself on being able to find errors or inconsistencies in data sets.”

19. When was the last time you had to deliver bad news to a client, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether you have experience delivering bad news to clients. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills, ability to problem-solve and willingness to take on challenging tasks.

Example: “In my last role as a parametric portfolio associate, I had to deliver some disappointing news to one of our largest clients. The client was expecting a large return on their investment but instead received a small return. They were upset with me at first, but I explained that we couldn’t control market conditions and that we did everything in our power to ensure they would receive the best possible returns. After hearing my explanation, the client understood and appreciated my honesty.”

20. What kind of questions would you ask during a review process?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you approach a client’s portfolio and what kind of questions you would use to evaluate their current investments. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills, analytical abilities and customer service orientation.

Example: “I believe that the best way to review a client’s portfolio is by asking them about their goals and objectives. I want to make sure they’re comfortable with the level of risk in their investment strategy and understand why we chose certain funds or stocks for their portfolio. After discussing their goals, I will analyze their current holdings and compare it to our company’s standards. If there are any discrepancies, I will discuss my findings with the client and offer solutions.”