Why Join Thrivent?

We exist to help people achieve financial clarity. At Thrivent, we believe money is a tool, not a goal. Driven by a higher purpose at our core, we are committed to providing financial advice, investments, insurance, banking, and generosity programs to help people make the most of all they’ve been given.

At our core, we are a membership-owned fraternal organization, as well as a holistic financial services organization, dedicated to serving the unique needs of our clients. We focus on their goals and priorities, guiding them toward financial choices that will help them live the life they want today—and tomorrow. Joining Thrivent means becoming part of a values-driven team that prioritizes financial clarity, community impact, and professional growth in a collaborative environment.

As a leader in the financial services industry, Thrivent offers unparalleled opportunities for Sr Research Analysts in high yield investments. Located in the heart of Minneapolis at our state-of-the-art Investments Office, you'll contribute to innovative strategies that shape client portfolios and drive long-term success. Our commitment to ethical investing, combined with cutting-edge research tools, empowers you to make a meaningful difference while advancing your career in high yield bond analysis.

Role Description

The Sr Research Analyst I, High Yield is the senior-most research analyst responsible for independent research covering a particular industry. This role analyzes and recommends the purchase and sale of public high yield corporate bonds and related securities within the analyst's assigned industries. Analysts at the Senior I level are highly independent and expected to proactively suggest investment decisions, understand existing investments, credit risk, and industry nuances at an expert level with highly consistent outcomes.

In addition, the Senior I Research Analyst makes relative weighting and relative value recommendations within the high yield credit market. Senior I research analysts may mentor junior research analysts and are sought after as experts in the industries they cover across the organization.

Success in this role requires working well in a team environment while being highly independent and consistently providing value-enhancing recommendations to portfolio managers that add significant value to the portfolio. The Research function is responsible for conducting research analyses on specific organizations, securities, financial products, and the overall economic environment. This position is ideal for seasoned professionals passionate about high yield investments, credit analysis, and strategic portfolio contributions in Minneapolis.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Perform independent, fundamental credit analysis on issuers within assigned industries, demonstrating a strong understanding of assigned credits/industries or the ability to quickly ramp up on new coverage.
• Analyze company financial statements from a bondholder’s perspective to develop an opinion of the company’s operational strengths, weaknesses, and directional outlook.
• Develop and maintain sophisticated financial models to evaluate creditworthiness and forecast potential risks.
• Prepare detailed credit reports and provide relative value opinions, which lead to actionable portfolio recommendations.
• Propose novel suggestions indicative of expert knowledge of industries covered, influencing broader investment strategies.
• Demonstrate ability and desire to have a broader impact within the credit research team and the larger investment organization.
• Mentor junior research analysts, fostering a culture of excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate with portfolio managers to enhance high yield bond selections and optimize portfolio performance.
• Monitor market trends, economic indicators, and industry developments to inform timely investment decisions.
• Contribute to team discussions on relative weighting and value opportunities across the high yield credit universe.

Required Skills

To excel as a Sr Research Analyst I, High Yield at Thrivent, you need a blend of technical expertise, analytical prowess, and strategic insight. Key skills include:

• Expert-level fundamental credit analysis
• High yield bond valuation and relative value assessment
• Financial modeling and forecasting
• Industry-specific research and knowledge
• Bondholder perspective financial statement analysis
• Portfolio recommendation development
• Mentoring and team collaboration
• Proactive investment idea generation
• Risk assessment and management
• Market trend monitoring

Education & Experience

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or a related field required. MBA, CFA, or advanced credit certifications strongly preferred.

Experience: Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in high yield credit research, fixed income analysis, or investment research. Proven track record of independent analysis leading to successful portfolio outcomes. Experience in public high yield corporate bonds essential. Demonstrated expertise in at least one high yield industry sector.

Compensation Overview

Thrivent offers competitive compensation packages tailored to attract top talent in the investments space. For this Sr Research Analyst I, High Yield role in Minneapolis, expect a base salary range of $140,000 - $180,000 annually, plus performance-based bonuses, equity incentives, and comprehensive benefits. Total compensation may exceed $250,000 for high performers, depending on experience and contributions.

Benefits

Thrivent provides an exceptional benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development
• Paid time off, parental leave, and wellness programs
• Retirement planning tools and financial counseling
• Generosity programs and community volunteering opportunities
• Hybrid work flexibility in our Minneapolis Investments Office
• Employee stock purchase plan and performance bonuses

Join Thrivent today and advance your career in high yield research while making a lasting impact. Apply now for the Sr Research Analyst I, High Yield position in Minneapolis!