At least 10 years of investment experience and a proven performance record are required to become a hedge fund manager.
Hedge fund managers need excellent investment, analytical, and stock-picking skills in order to effectively manage their fund and generate strong returns for investors and general partners. They also should be cool under pressure because they must make split-second trading decisions. Strong communication skills are important because hedge fund managers need to effectively explain their firm’s trading strategies to current and potential investors, as well as interact with coworkers. Advanced knowledge of the financial markets, extensive experience in portfolio management, and asset allocation expertise is also extremely important. Other key traits include creativity and imagination, strong organizational skills, attentiveness to detail, confidence, and leadership ability.