What JP Morgan’s Justin Nelson Looks for in New Hires
Students hoping to break into wealth management often worry that the wrong major will hold them back. Justin Nelson, a Managing Director at JP Morgan with nearly 30 years in the industry, suggests they can relax a little. His hiring criteria put character and aptitude well ahead of a particular degree.
The JP Morgan executive runs the Asset Management and Financial Principals Coverage Team at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Connecticut. The 20-person team manages over $15 billion in assets for high-net-worth individuals and family offices.
Three Qualities That Count
Remarks published by Money Inc. spell out what he wants from applicants. He wants people who are curious about finance and who, in his words, “have the raw skills to be in this business.” He also prizes humility and genuineness.
Notice what is missing from that list. There is no mention of a finance major, an economics concentration, or a specific business curriculum. Justin Nelson has said plainly that a candidate’s field of study barely registers when he is making hiring decisions.
Where Strong Candidates Come From
Some of the best applicants he sees studied psychology. That makes sense to him, since he estimates about half of an advisor’s day involves people skills rather than numbers. Clients want someone who can read a room, manage emotional decisions about money, and handle sensitive family matters.
Justin Nelson JP Morgan also likes hearing from biology and engineering majors who want to work in finance, because they bring ways of thinking his team might otherwise lack. Nelson himself studied chemistry and economics at Tufts University and holds an MBA from Columbia University.
For anyone preparing for interviews in private banking, the practical lesson is simple. Show genuine interest in markets and clients, demonstrate sharp thinking, and let your personality come through. On the JP Morgan team led by Justin Nelson, those traits can matter more than the title printed on a diploma. Visit this page to learn more.
Find more information about Justin Nelson JP Morgan on https://www.crunchbase.com/person/justin-nelson-a8e8