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We are looking for a Product Specialist to join the Franklin Equity Group (FEG) based in New York, NY. FEG is an investment advisory unit of Franklin Templeton managing more than $130 billion across a variety of mutual funds and other investment vehicles. Franklin Equity Group offers in-depth expertise in managing global, U.S., sector and thematic equity strategies across the style and market-capitalization spectrum. We are at the forefront of reshaping the investment landscape through our dedicated focus on growth and innovation. Our diverse range of investment products, including mutual funds, ETFs, SMAs, and CITs, are designed to cater to the future-focused investor. We believe that attractive risk-adjusted returns can be achieved over time by using a team-oriented collaborative approach and disciplined, bottom-up fundamental research.

The FEG Product and Content team sits within the investment team and is responsible for ensuring that FEG’s investment products are positioned at the highest levels of investment market standards, and that this is effectively communicated internally and externally. The Product Specialist will act as a liaison between investment management, distribution, and our other internal business partners. In this capacity, the Product Specialist is expected to serve as a product expert and product champion for several equity strategies.

This role is responsible for the promotion, defense, and competitive positioning of the product line, and is actively involved in global distribution initiatives, as well as institutional and retail client service. Key success metrics include demonstrating ownership, strategic direction-setting, and prioritization for the assigned investment strategies. In concert with these efforts, an important function is content development, working with internal parties to ensure accurate and compelling representation of the investment strategies under coverage, working closely with the Head of Product Strategy in support of key initiatives and ad hoc projects. The day-to-day role of a Product Specialist is a fluid one, with the immediate needs of the products generally dictating what must be the required focus. The Product Specialist works with senior business development professionals to promote and competitively position these strategies through active involvement in distribution initiatives across retail and institutional channels as well as in support of existing client relationships. The Product Specialist also interacts with senior investment management to provide insight and counsel to drive business decisions.

What are the ongoing responsibilities of a Product Specialist?

Serve as the primary subject matter expert (SME) of the investment-related aspects of several equity investment strategies to sales, client service, consultant relations, marketing, other business partners and external clients.

Promote the gathering and retention of assets under management through the development of strategic messaging for use with a wide range of internal (sales, client service, marketing, and consultant relations) and external (potential and existing clients, consultants and third parties) audiences. Perform portfolio and market analysis to enhance storytelling/messaging in support of business development and client servicing efforts.

Effectively and efficiently answer client servicing questions, articulate investment team views, and respond to performance and other investment-related inquiries on assigned investment strategies.

Update and deliver monthly and quarterly performance data to internal business partners.

Liaise with product marketing team to communicate updates and develop new content for standard and ad hoc client presentation materials.

Partner with investment writers to develop thought leadership/white paper content for a range of client groups.

Develop investment related insight for use in investment communications including RFPs, DDQs, pre-sale and post-sale marketing collateral and corporate communications.  Demonstrate ownership and prioritization for assigned strategies within the Franklin Equity Group platform.

Partner with internal product strategy teams to reposition, extend and innovate the FEG product line including product rationalization, launching new strategies, and executing product line extensions. This includes development of investment guidelines and pricing frameworks.

Assess new product and business opportunities (customized separate accounts, sub-advised products, and new funds).

Support Head of Product Strategy in related projects tied to broader platform or corporate initiatives and ad hoc projects.

What ideal qualifications, skills & experience would help someone to be successful?

Five to ten years product management or other pertinent industry experience, preferably with a focus on investment management, investment consulting or buy-side experience.

Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and attention to detail.

High proficiency in business desktop applications, including Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word. Ideal candidates would be knowledgeable in Morningstar Direct and FactSet.

Excellent organizational and project management skills; able to adhere to schedules, handle multi-tasking, and manage project flow with a meticulous mind under deadline pressure

Strong analytical skills, with ability to translate complex portfolio data (such as performance attribution reports or other analytics) into client-friendly content.

Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with ability to effectively communicate with senior professionals.

Possess a high energy level and drive to succeed coupled with ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Demonstrated knowledge of distribution channels, investment vehicles and pricing structures.

Curious to learn about new and different products and portfolios; experience with global equity investing is a plus

Highly motivated and a self-starter.

CFA and/or MBA/graduate degree in finance or economics, or progress toward attaining, preferred.

FINRA Series 7, Series 63

Compensation Range: Along with base compensation, other compensation is offered such as a discretionary bonus, 401k plan, health insurance, and other perks. There are several factors taken into consideration in making compensation decisions including but not limited to location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. At Franklin Templeton, we apply a total reward philosophy where all aspects of compensation and benefits are taken into consideration in determining compensation. The salary, benefits and variable rewards will reflect the seniority of the position and a competitive market rate. We expect the annual salary for this position to range between $130,000 - $150,000.

When applying, please be sure to attach your resume / CV. Applications without a resume file attachment will not be reviewed.

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Experience our welcoming culture and reach your professional and personal potential!

Our culture is shaped by our diverse global workforce and strongly held core values. Regardless of your interests, lifestyle, or background, there’s a place for you at Franklin Templeton. We provide employees with the tools, resources, and learning opportunities to help them excel in their career and personal life.

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By joining us, you will become part of a culture that focuses on employee well-being and provides multidimensional support for a positive and healthy lifestyle. We understand that benefits are at the core of employee well-being and may vary depending on individual needs. Whether you need support for maintaining your physical and mental health, saving for life’s adventures, taking care of your family members, or making a positive impact in your community, we aim to have your needs covered. Learn more about the wide range of benefits we offer at Franklin Templeton.

Highlights of our benefits include:

Three weeks paid time off the first year

Medical, dental and vision insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan with 85% company match on your pre-tax and/or Roth contributions, up to the IRS limits

Employee Stock Investment Program

Tuition Assistance Program

Purchase of company funds with no sales charge

Onsite fitness center and recreation center*

Onsite cafeteria*

*Only applicable at certain locations

Learn more about the wide range of benefits we offer at Franklin Templeton

Franklin Templeton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and existing employees, and we evaluate qualified applicants without regard to ancestry, age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, or gender expression, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation. 
 
Franklin Templeton is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. If you believe that you need an accommodation to search for or apply for one of our positions, please send an email to accommodations@franklintempleton.com. In your email, please include the accommodation you are requesting, the job title, and the job number you are applying for. It may take up to three business days to receive a response to your request. Please note that only accommodation requests will receive a response.