Investment Manager Evaluation & Selection

Stratford conducts ongoing research to identify a diversified universe of investment managers having a high probability of consistently outperforming their peers and relevant market indices.  We place significant emphasis on understanding the qualitative aspects of managers.  Our focus is to assess strengths and weaknesses of each investment management firm to determine its likely performance pattern in various market environments.  The qualitative assessment relies heavily upon onsite due diligence by senior research professionals.  Managers must meet both our qualitative and quantitative criteria to be presented to the client as a potential candidate.  We provide detailed written profiles of the recommended investment manager organizations and their investment process.  

For each manager search assignment, Stratford develops client-specific selection criteria, including fit with current investment managers.  Stratford identifies and presents appropriate candidates, participates in the due diligence and selection process, assists in fee negotiation, the transfer of assets and the setting of manager performance objectives and investment guidelines.

Manager Monitoring

Onsite due diligence and frequent communications with managers can often identify problems before they are evident in performance.  All managers are reassessed frequently to ensure that there have been no changes to the investment strategy or disruptions to the organization.  Stratford provides timely, written advice to our clients regarding any issues we encounter during our ongoing monitoring process.