Headshot of Elena Koycheva

I was encouraged to pursue the CAIA Charter by one of my university professors who highlighted the use of the qualification particularly with respect to multi-asset portfolio management. Indeed, I found that the curriculum offered in-depth knowledge and a layer of comprehension that complemented my understanding on traditional asset classes. The present low yield environment has pushed investors to reach for yield in alternative strategies and as such the CAIA designation has been invaluable in helping me provide appropriate investment solutions to clients. Finally, as a Member of the CAIA London Chapter Executive Committee I have also been able to contribute to the community of alternative professionals in the UK by organising various educational and networking events in addition to establishing valuable relationships both with my fellow executives and the CAIA Membership community.

Recently I was shortlisted in the Women in Finance Awards 2020 in the Ambassador of the Year category. I am also nominated in the Women in Investment Awards 2020.

I am a member of the Global Business Development Team at BlueBay Asset Management and since 2019 have also been the co-vice chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Forum at the firm. Prior to joining BlueBay, I was a member of the Global Portfolio Solutions Group at Goldman Sachs Asset Management. I started my investment management career at Candriam Investors Group (formerly Dexia Asset Management) where I acquired experience in performance analysis and business development.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Portfolio Management and a Master’s Degree in Corporate Finance from IAE Gustave Eiffel, University of Paris XII and a Master’s Degree in Banking, Finance and Risk Management from the University of Paris XIII. I was awarded a Summa Cum Laude Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Administration: Finance, Minor in Economics from Richmond, the American International University in London. I am a CFA charterholder, a CAIA Charterholder, and a CIPM designation holder. In 2019 I also completed the Certificate in ESG Investing and hold the Diploma in Investment Management (ESG).

In addition to my volunteering activity with the CAIA London Chapter Executive Committee, I also lead the CFA UK Careers in the Investment Sector Working Group and am a member of the CFA UK Volunteering Steering Committee. I believe in helping talented individuals reach their full potential and participate in a number of mentoring programs where I am able to share my knowledge and experience. I am an active member of 100 Women in Finance and Women in Banking and Finance and became a Diversity Project Ambassador earlier this year. I was a 2018 and 2019 finalist in the “Unsung Hero” category in the Women in Investment Awards.

Location
CAIA London