IN today’s dynamic and ever-evolving financial landscape, alternative investments have emerged as a compelling avenue for economic growth, diversifying portfolios, and generating substantial returns. Recognising the immense potential in this field and the need to foster the growth of the next generation of financial experts, Sygnus, a leading alternative investments company, has launched an innovative internship programme aimed at empowering graduates with the necessary knowledge and exposure to excel in the rapidly growing alternative investments sector.

Come July 24 the firm will mark a significant milestone with the official launch of their Sygnus Capital Limited Alternative Investment Leaders of Tomorrow (AILT) initiative. This exclusive internship programme will provide two students with the opportunity to work alongside industry experts in the alternative investments field.

Through rotations in key units such as investment banking, investment management and wealth management, these interns will have the chance to apply their knowledge, make an impact, and gain invaluable practical exposure.

Lasting for a total of six weeks, this carefully designed programme aims to provide interns with an exceptional foundation in alternative investments.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of Sygnus’s internship programme where aspiring minds will have the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey in the world of alternative investments. As part of our commitment to excellence we are dedicated to cultivating the next generation of professionals through our internship programme. We have had several interns in the past that have transitioned from internship to full-time positions within the team,” shared Anadeen Nembhard, head of people, culture and talent management at Sygnus.

Since 2020 Sygnus has welcomed a total of six interns who have gained invaluable hands-on experience in the industry. Chad-Anthony Coke, the company’s second intern, joined in September of 2021 and was rotated across several units.

Coke, now a business development junior analyst, reflects on his experience, saying, “My internship at Sygnus Capital can be described as invaluable as the mentorship and experience in the investment banking unit were practical and applicable, and aligned with my career objectives. Having transitioned from being an intern to full-time and a part of the Sygnus family means a great deal as I get to work alongside revered industry professionals, and I have the opportunity for significant career growth. I’ve also developed, with no pun intended, bonds with colleagues that I deem valuable and important. The launch of the AILT internship programme at Sygnus Capital is an invaluable avenue for students who want to garner experience in the growing asset class of alternative investments.”

Malik Kington, another exceptional intern, embarked on his journey with Sygnus in April 2021. Since then he has risen to the position of junior analyst, specialising in private equity and mergers and acquisitions.

“It allowed me to get hands-on experience with transactions in real time, and although I didn’t hit the ground running I have been progressing to higher levels of competency. Sygnus’s sheer commitment to performance and integrity has always been admirable, and it has made a big mark in the way I handle situations. To the potential interns I would say they should come with the intention to be a sponge; soak up all information from all sources. Don’t hesitate to take the initiative. Constantly innovate and strive to understand what you do, inside out,” Kington shared with Career & Education.

The programme aims to empower interns to make an impact by developing and updating financial models; conducting market research; customising cutting edge solutions for partners; participating in real investment transactions; and building a professional network with mentors, senior executives, and others who are shaping the alternative investment industry.

Additionally, interns can look forward to the possibility of a tuition grant to support their tuition fees, further enhancing their learning experience.

Looking ahead, over the next five years Sygnus aspires to continue to provide growth opportunities for students to support their dreams in becoming future leaders in the investment space. The team also aims to support interns’ educational journey by providing a grant or scholarship to further their studies.

“These ambitious future plans underline our dedication to cultivating talent, creating a dynamic and rewarding experience,” said Nembhard.