Job Description

At Sunflower Bank, N.A., we’re experiencing great growth. Since our founding in 1892, we've been committed to serving our communities and supporting the team members who make it all possible. As a full-service financial institution, we offer a full range of relationship-focused services to meet personal, business, and wealth-management financial objectives. Creating Possibility is not just our mission, it’s what we do every day for clients and associates. Learn more about Sunflower Bank, N.A at sunflowerbank.com.

Sunflower Bank, N.A./First Foundation Advisors is looking for an energetic, highly motivated individual to fill the position of a full-time Investment Research Associate at our Irvine, CA location.

The salary range for this position is $60,100 to $84,500 depending on knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and location.

The Investment Research Analyst will be primarily responsible for assisting the Investment Committee members in ad hoc efforts including reporting, manager due diligence and streamlining workflow processes for both public and private, as well as proprietary & non-proprietary, investment solutions. The associate will also support the advising team by responding to questions and requests about securities on the firm’s investment platform from client-facing teams.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support investment strategists in performing manager due diligence reporting, including those for non-proprietary and proprietary investments, separately managed accounts, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and alternative investments.
• Ensure knowledge of entire investment solution suite; recommend investment solutions to Portfolio Strategist and Wealth Advisors for client use based upon clients' needs and constraints.
• Strategize with investment team in updating asset class outlook and asset allocation.
• Respond to inquiries about the investment platform from business development team members.
• Maintain updated fund manager collateral for easy access by Relationship Managers and Wealth Advisors.
• Serve as a liaison for communications between Investment Strategists and fund manager partners.
• Perform ad hoc analysis on portfolios and investment strategies.
• Coordinate duties between Investment Strategists and Operations for investments.
• Conduct research and analysis to support the investment sub-committee’s theses or find potential opportunities.
• Adheres to compliance programs and completes required training on time.
• Understands and complies with requirements of all laws and regulations applicable to position.
• Perform the job in accordance with applicable industry laws and regulations as well as the policies and procedures established by the company.
• Responsible for upholding Fair and Responsible Banking practices and Code of Ethics and Conduct guidelines.
• Understand and participate in the Bank’s Community Reinvestment Act program.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education / Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Economics, Physical Sciences, Engineering, or Computer Science is preferred.
• 3-5 Years of investment industry experience preferred.
• Knowledge of valuing financial instruments, including those in Equity and Fixed Income.
• Bloomberg, FactSet, Argus and/or Morningstar experience preferred.
• Willingness to pursue CFA and/or CAIA designation a plus.
• Experience with Python/AI workflow automation or demonstrated aptitude and eagerness to learn.
• Prior or current involvement in investment-related undergraduate clubs or community involvement a plus.
• Possesses a deep quantitative and analytical mindset.
• Advanced proficiency with Excel & PowerPoint. VBA and/or financial modeling skills a plus.
• A team player with excellent communication skills who exhibits a high level of professionalism.
• Strong organizational skills and initiative with systematic follow-up & a focus on accuracy and reliability.
• Must be bondable.

Working Conditions:

The physical demands of this position require the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Employees may spend extended periods sitting or standing, using hands to operate computers or other equipment, and reaching for work-related tasks. Regular walking may be required, along with occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, or climbing. The role may involve lifting or moving items weighing up to 10 pounds. Vision requirements include close and distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Sunflower Bank Benefits

People choose to “bank” with us, but for those we serve, we’re more than a bank. We strive to be the financial backbone of their lives, and we know that starts with our team.

Our supportive culture empowers team members to grow and seize new opportunities. Like our namesake, the sunflower, we are:

• Rooted in Strength
• Propelled by Growth
• Individuals in a Great Whole
• Creating Possibility
• Community Focused

Associates enjoy outstanding benefits, including:

• 401(k) Plan with 6% Match
• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Fitness Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off
• Volunteer Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Plus many more associate perks & incentives!

If you qualify, apply online at www.sunflowerbank.com/careers.

You’ve never worked anyplace like Sunflower Bank!

EOE/AA: Minorities/Females/Disabled/Vets

Sunflower Bank, N.A. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, status as a qualified individual with a disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Open until filled; early application encouraged. This vacancy announcement may be used to fill similar positions within 90 days.

If you are a California resident, you may be entitled to certain rights regarding your personal information, which is information that identifies, relates to, or could reasonably be linked with a particular California resident or household. Additional information about our data collection practices and location-specific notices is available on our privacy policy.