Chris' Journey | From Engineering, to Portfolio Manager at Fidelity

Hello I’m Chris and I’m a Portfolio Manager at Fidelity International. I studied Engineering at Imperial College and graduated in 2010. Outside of work, I'm a dedicated family man, juggling life with two young children, while still finding time for running, cycling, and the occasional triathlon.

My journey into the world of finance is anything but conventional. I graduated with an engineering degree in 2010 and embarked on a series of internships that ultimately shaped my career. From an engineering internship to a role on the sell side in equity trading, and finally, an experience on the buy side with Fidelity, my path exemplifies the power of exploration. It was during my time at Fidelity that I discovered my passion for equity research, a field I have thrived in ever since.

I believe in the importance of firsthand experience to truly understand what a job entails. My internships provided me with valuable insights into different roles, leading me to discover that the repetitive nature of engineering wasn't for me. Instead, I found finance more dynamic and creative. For university students, especially those from non-finance backgrounds, I advocate for pursuing diverse internships as a means to explore potential career paths.

For those unfamiliar with equity research, I describe it as the art of identifying stocks where the risk-reward ratio is favourable. This involves building financial models, analysing industries, and assessing companies' management teams and ESG factors. Equity research is a never-ending process of discovery, offering continuous opportunities to build conviction or reassess investment decisions.

You might wonder how an engineering degree translates to a successful career in finance. For me, the key skills I developed at university have been instrumental in my role at Fidelity. Working under time constraints, collaborating in teams, and applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations are all skills that have proven invaluable in equity research and portfolio management. I emphasise that technical financial knowledge can be learned on the job, but these core skills provide a solid foundation.

It's the constant learning and the opportunity to interact with some of the brightest minds in business. In equity research, no two days are the same. I relish the chance to explore new industries and companies, learning about the world and travelling to emerging markets. For those considering a career in finance, the appeal lies in this perpetual learning journey.

I acknowledge that misconceptions about finance are common, particularly among those from non-financial backgrounds. I was surprised to learn that investing doesn't have clear-cut answers like engineering problems do. Success in equity research requires emotional clarity and the ability to navigate uncertainty, rather than just hard work. This is an important lesson for students to grasp as they consider a career in finance.

At Fidelity, I've benefited from various training programs and the mentorship of experienced colleagues. While formal qualifications like the CFA can bridge technical gaps, I highlight the invaluable lessons learned from mentors and peers. I encourage students to seek out mentorship opportunities, as learning from others is a crucial aspect of professional growth.

My advice to non-finance students is simple: gain as much experience as possible. Whether through internships, shadowing, or short-term placements, hands-on experience provides a true understanding of the industry. Additionally, I emphasise the importance of curiosity, emotional clarity, and the ability to admit mistakes—attributes that are vital for a successful career in equity research. Skills are transferable, and the finance industry is full of possibilities. So, dare to explore, embrace the uncertainty, and let your curiosity guide your career path.