Overview
Janus Capital Group Inc. is a comprehensive financial services firm with $160 billion in assets under management, making the Denver-based firm one of the largest mutual fund managers in the world. It also offers wealth management and investment education services.
Janus has always prided itself on its stock picking. In recent years, the firm sought to move from a longstanding star culture to a team-driven approach meant to limit risky positions. It also beefed up its stock research, elevated the role of research analysts and improved its distribution. In 2008 due in part to management turnover and its growth orientation in the cratering markets, Janus’s funds were down well below industry averages for the year. This is a complete 180-degree turn from Janus’s performance in 2007, which fund tracker Morningstar Inc. rated as best among the 25 largest mutual fund managers. The Wall Street Journal called the reversal “stunning.” Janus is looking for a new chief executive to replace Gary Black, who recently left the firm.
Recently Janus upped its stake from 30% to 80% in Perkins, Wolf, McDonnell and Co., which is known now as Perkins Investment Management. Janus itself is 14% owned by mutual fund manager Fidelity Management and Research LLP and 13% owned by financial advisory giant AXA Financial Inc.
Recruiting
Like many large financial institutions, Janus offers prospective candidates a lot to salivate over on its careers site. Check out its benefits plans, career path options and worldwide locations. Though the feel is a bit corporate-y, watch the Janus employee videos to get their take on what working at the company is like.