Equity Research Associate - Consumer

Role Overview Research Morgan Stanley Investment Research is uniquely committed to being an essential part of our clients' investment process. We strive to be the sell-side research provider that best understands the buy side. Through relevant and timely conversations with leading investors, we focus resources on risk-reward essentials: identifying the investor debates, assessing the potential outcomes, and uncovering the evidence our clients need to validate their investment decisions. Primary Responsibilities Create and maintain financial and industry models, leveraging skills in accounting, finance, and economics. Translate company, industry, consumer, or market data into insightful research reports with clear investment debates, differentiated conclusions, and actionable stock calls. Develop and maintain relationships with management of companies under coverage, industry specialists, and key opinion leaders. Engage with institutional investors by responding to in-depth questions, addressing bespoke requests, and helping communicate the team’s highest-conviction views. Support internal sales and trading teams with timely analysis of sector breaking news. Adopt and apply AI-enabled research tools judiciously to accelerate information gathering, model maintenance, data analysis, and workflow execution while maintaining analytical rigor, source verification, and quality control. Conduct industry diligence and primary research through surveys, expert conference calls, and channel checks to evaluate industry trends. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to produce larger industry reports. Qualifications At least 2 years of professional experience in equity research or investment banking. Proven experience using Excel to build and maintain three-statement financial models; advanced Excel proficiency is required. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present analysis clearly, defend conclusions, and contribute positively in client-facing discussions. Demonstrated interest in public markets and a genuine curiosity about what drives stock performance, investor debates, and valuation. Comfort adopting AI-enabled tools and new technologies to improve research efficiency, with judgment to verify outputs, protect data integrity, and apply tools appropriately. Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Ability to adapt quickly and work well under pressure. High EQ, strong personal drive, energy, creativity, curiosity, organization, and a team-oriented mindset. Experience with Python is a plus but not required. CFA designation or progress toward CFA preferred. Morgan Stanley is an equal-opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a workforce that is diverse in experience and background. Our recruiting efforts reflect our strong commitment to a culture of inclusion, where individuals are hired, developed, and advanced based on their skills and talents. For more information, please visit #J-18808-Ljbffr 711 MS Smith Barney, LLC