AUM

Term from Investment Management industry explained for recruiters

AUM stands for "Assets Under Management," which is a key term in the investment and financial services industry. It represents the total market value of investments that a financial company or professional manages on behalf of their clients. Think of it like a measurement of how much money a company is responsible for managing - similar to how a store might measure its total sales. When you see "AUM" in a job description, it often indicates the size and scope of the company's business. For example, a firm with $10 billion in AUM is typically larger and may offer different opportunities than one with $100 million in AUM.

Examples in Resumes

Grew AUM from $500M to $2B through successful client acquisition strategies

Managed client relationships representing $1.5B in Assets Under Management

Led team of advisors overseeing combined AUM of $3.5 billion

Typical job title: "Investment Managers"

Also try searching for:

Portfolio Manager Investment Advisor Wealth Manager Asset Manager Financial Advisor Investment Professional Fund Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach growing AUM while maintaining quality of service?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that balance business development strategies with client service quality. They should discuss team scaling, process efficiency, and maintaining personalized service while growing the client base.

Q: What strategies have you implemented to retain AUM during market downturns?

Expected Answer: Candidate should discuss client communication strategies, risk management approaches, and specific examples of how they've maintained client confidence during challenging market conditions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you report and communicate AUM changes to clients?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of performance reporting, client communication methods, and ability to explain market impacts on portfolio value in simple terms.

Q: What's your approach to growing AUM through referrals?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show understanding of relationship building, client satisfaction strategies, and professional networking methods.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What factors affect changes in AUM?

Expected Answer: Should mention market performance, client deposits and withdrawals, new client acquisition, and client retention as key factors affecting AUM levels.

Q: How do you track and report AUM?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of portfolio management systems, reporting tools, and the importance of accurate AUM tracking.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of AUM calculation and reporting
  • Client service support
  • Portfolio monitoring
  • Basic financial analysis

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Client relationship management
  • AUM growth strategies
  • Investment portfolio analysis
  • Performance reporting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic AUM growth planning
  • Team leadership
  • Complex portfolio management
  • Business development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Inability to explain AUM in simple terms
  • Lack of understanding about market impact on AUM
  • Poor grasp of client relationship management
  • No experience with regulatory compliance