Head of Research
Location: Colombo | Employment Type: Full-Time | Reports To: CEO – Almas Equities | Company: Almas Equities
Role Overview
The Head of Research is a senior leadership role responsible for building, leading, and driving the research function at Almas. The incumbent will be the primary authority on equity research, investment analysis, and market intelligence, setting the strategic direction of the research team and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, actionable insights to support investment decision-making across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
· Research Strategy & Leadership — Define and lead the overall research strategy of the firm, establishing coverage priorities, research methodology, and quality standards across all asset classes and sectors covered by the team on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and relevant regional markets
· Equity Research & Investment Coverage — Oversee the production of equity research including initiating coverage reports, sector deep-dives, earnings analyses, investment theses, and macroeconomic commentary, ensuring all output reflects rigorous analytical standards and are aligned with the firm's investment philosophy
· Team Management & Development — Build, mentor, and manage the research team — including junior and senior analysts — setting clear objectives, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a culture of intellectual rigour, continuous learning, and professional development
· Client-Facing Research — Lead the preparation and presentation of research materials for institutional and high-net-worth clients, fund managers, and other stakeholders, articulating complex market views in a clear, compelling, and commercially relevant manner
· Regulatory & CSE Compliance — Ensure all research outputs and analyst activities comply with the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka, CSE disclosure requirements, and applicable ethical standards governing investment research
· Market Intelligence & Macroeconomic Analysis — Monitor and interpret macroeconomic trends, monetary policy developments, foreign exchange dynamics, and geopolitical factors that may impact the Sri Lankan capital markets and the firm's investment positions
· Cross-Functional Collaboration — Work closely with the investment advisors and strategy teams to ensure research insights are effectively integrated into the firm's broader investment and business development activities
Qualifications & Experience
· Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in equity research, investment analysis, or portfolio management within the capital markets or financial services industry
· Demonstrated track record of leading a research function or managing a team of analysts
· Deep knowledge of the Colombo Stock Exchange, Sri Lankan capital markets, and SEC regulatory framework
· CFA charter holder strongly preferred; alternatively, postgraduate qualification in Finance, Economics, or a related discipline
· Exceptional financial modelling, valuation, and analytical skills across multiple methodologies
· Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present research to both technical and non-technical audiences
· High levels of integrity, independence of thought, and sound commercial judgement
· Proficiency in financial data platforms and analytical
About Almas
Our strategy is to focus on value positions in companies and industries at the forefront of transformative growth. The foundations of resilience and rational analysis – supported by our clear vision for capital market growth – have established us as a leading asset management company today.
A clear vision for the future forms the basis of all decision-making at Almas, which is complemented by agility in capital allocation to take advantage of the growth opportunities in the market.