A Workshop on Advanced Valuation Techniques | Pune

I am the Managing Partner of Econ Climate Fund (ECF), a private equity growth fund for emerging markets investing in climate themed companies. Prior to ECF, I was Partner in infrastructure and energy focussed private equity/credit funds at Kotak Alternate Asset Managers in India. I was awarded India’s top ’40 Under 40′ – Alternative Investment Professionals 2020 by Association of International Wealth Management of India (AIWMI) and Indian Association of Alternative Investment Funds (IAAIF). I cleared the CFA Level I exam in 2003 and resumed my journey in 2020 after being inspired by other finance professionals in global private markets. Wading through multiple exam deferments due to COVID-19, I cleared Level II exam in 2021, failed Level III in 2022 and finally cleared it in my next attempt in 2023, 10 years after my first foray into the CFA program.

Marc Pilgrem is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of JioBlackRock Investment Advisers Private Limited. Marc brings over 25 years of global financial services experience to his new role. He previously served as the Head of Specialist Clients and Investment Trusts for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at BlackRock, where he led initiatives to enhance client engagement and expand BlackRock’s investment trust offerings across the region.

Prior to that, he was Chief Operating Officer and Head of Business Strategy for iShares EMEA, overseeing strategic planning and operational execution for BlackRock’s exchange-traded fund business.Marc will draw upon his extensive experience in wealth management, digital transformation and client engagement as JioBlackRock Investment Advisers aims to deliver innovative investment solutions to millions of investors in India.

In 2017, I entered the finance world as an analyst for an investment banking client. Struggling with the challenges of the field, I moved to a role with a Value-Based Investment Fund within the first year. Recognizing the need for a knowledge boost, I pursued the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Transitioning to a trader/market analyst role with OSTC in June 2018, I decided to tackle the Level 1 CFA exam. Despite initial setbacks in December 2018, encourage ment from colleagues spurred me to a successful attempt. With newfound determination, I faced Level 2 and Level 3 amid the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. The enforced downtime allowed me to delve deeply into the curriculum, contributing to success in both exams. Understanding the interconnectedness of the curriculum fueled my comprehension and confidence. Remote work facilitated a more efficient study routine, enhancing my understanding of the material. Passion for the subject matter became my driving force, turning exam preparation into an immersive experience. The culmination of this journey was earning the CFA Charter—more than letters, it became a source of confidence and validation. Professionally, it secured a desired job with double the salary, while personally, it instilled the courage for a more ambitious career path. The CFA Charter, a testament to academic achievement, became a catalyst for personal and professional growth, shaping my understanding of finance and opening doors to a future full of possibilities. Key Takeaway: Understanding the interconnectedness of the curriculum fueled my comprehension and confidence.

My experience with the CFA Institute has been incredibly enriching. It provided me with opportunities to contribute to the community, such as mentoring selected teams for CFA Research Challenge and serving as a grader for the CFA Ethics Challenge. Engaging in diverse activities organized by the CFA Society in India has kept me connected with a valuable network. I’m continuously exploring additional avenues to remain an active participant in this wonderful journey.