Head of Indexing Research

We are seeking a researcher focusing on index investing – which in broad terms relates to exploring the various characteristics of indexing as an investment form and how it can help to give investors the best change of investment success. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to lead a team of investment strategists and specialists, drive cutting-edge research, represent the firm as a senior ambassador at high-profile internal and external events, and shape the conversation around market trends and portfolio construction.  

Vanguard has incredible people and an inspiring mission: To take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success. If you have a passion for data, research, and leading a team of highly motivated researchers, this is a great opportunity for you. This role will be based in Malvern, PA.

Core Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead a strategic research agenda focused on indexing and broader investment strategy topics, in collaboration with senior stakeholders across government relations, PR/marketing/sales, and investment management.
• Serve as an internal and external authority on index investing and prepare relevant written material and analyses. Drive research projects that boost Vanguard's role as an investment leader in the industry.
• Hire, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of investment researchers that develop, organize, and perform complex quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Oversee full-stack research execution, including ideation, quantitative and qualitative analysis, publication development, stakeholder engagement, and public ambassadorship.
• Represent Vanguard as an external authority on portfolio construction and investment advice in senior public-speaking forums with clients, regulators, policymakers, and the broader asset management community.
• Drive the ongoing review and enhancement of Vanguard’s investment methodology, including detailed audits and empirical recommendations based on market conditions.
• Serve on divisional and corporate teams, providing mentorship and strategic input across the organization.
• Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Ten years of related work experience. Five years econometrics and finance research experience preferred. Supervisory experience preferred.
• Leadership experience required.
• Dynamic public speaker with experience engaging audiences of various sizes across diverse venues, including conferences, workshops, and large-scale industry events.
• Undergraduate degree in finance, statistics or equivalent combination of training and experience required. Graduate degree required.
• PhD or PhD-level equivalent experience preferred.
• CFA preferred.

Special Factors

Sponsorship

Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position.

About Vanguard

At Vanguard, we don't just have a mission—we're on a mission.

To work for the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients. To lead through product and services that transform our clients' lives. To learn and develop our skills as individuals and as a team. From Malvern to Melbourne, our mission drives us forward and inspires us to be our best.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.