Cowen Group Equity Research Associate Interview

Interview Details – I was referred for the role through a friend on the buy-side - which may be the only way in if you can manage to find the right contact (and even better if the person was/is in ER). My timing couldn't been better, since they needed an associate for one of their groups which has been understaffed and overworked. They love candidates with a winning/positive attitude, and of course detail-oriented. You have to be hungry to come up the learning curve though and willing to work long hours (70+) - particularly during earnings season. Aside from their solid rep, I couldn't be more impressed with everyone's generosity and kindness throughout the interview process which speaks volumes about the culture. Everyone was so down to earth and was really helpful, which is comforting as a newbie. I loved meeting senior mgmt - they were so knowledgeable and insightful. They understand they have a quality research product and have done an amazing job preserving it through time.

Mind you that you will have to complete a challenging project prior to getting an interview which consists of an earnings pr, updating the model (p&l,b/s/, cfs) they send you, and writing a well structured research note - which by the way I spent over 30hrs prepping for. Interviews were mostly behavioral for me w/ a few technical questions about ROIC/Value/FCF etc. I met with the Director of Research, my grp, and some of the sales and trading team (total of 7 ppl). I would convey a sense of modesty and optimism throughout the interviews because your relationship with your MD and team is critical to you getting the job and succeeding - so clear communication is critical . You'll be spending an awful amt of time with your MD and associates, so being pleasant, proactive, and positive (the three p's) are all important to your development and relationship with your grp. If you can win over the MD, you can win the job.

Negotiation Details – Relatively easy. Just be confident. It's common to receive between $60-$80k starting out plus bonus.