Job change My efforts of networking, blogging and job searching have finally paid off. On 10/2, I will be starting a new position at Charles Schwab Investment Management as Manager of Compliance. The new role will meet some, but not all, of the objectives I set out at the start of my search. I will still be working in the "mainstream" rather than Socially Responsible Investment sphere. The position will help me complete the CFA requirements and will bring me closer to the investment management process. The organization will be closer to my values of environmental sustainability and progressive politics though. On studying proxy voting records of the top mutual fund companies, I noted that Schwab supported many of the environmental resolutions sponsored by shareholders while Wells Fargo Funds opposed all. I hope the new position will give me an opportunity to encourage spread of the ideas behind "triple-bottom line" thinking to a new organization.

Goals:

1). Use the opportunity to beef up my credentials (complete CFA paperwork to claim the designation, renew securities licenses - 7 & 63 and acquire whatever additional licenses, such as the 24, my new employer deems beneficial).

2). Continue to grow my network through meeting new colleagues, LinkedIn and professional associations.

3). Maintain high professional standards and reputation to become more influential within my new workplace.

4). Explore opportunities to pitch SRI to Schwab after educating myself on the existing investment decision making process. Would like to explore use of sustainability metrics (GRI e.g.) in conjunction with the Schwab Equity Ratings.

5). If my research bears it out and if I manage to have access to decision makers, make a business case that SRI can work for Schwab. With over $160 billion in current assets under management, success could have a major impact on the "mainstreaming" of SRI.  ¶ 10:09 AM