Open to opportunities

Hollis Simone

@hollissimone

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PhD financial economist specializing in financial modelling, quantitative analysis and investment strategy.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a senior quantitative research or investment role where I can apply econometric and financial modeling to guide portfolio strategy, collaborate with experts, and leverage AI/ML to improve investment outcomes.

I am a highly analytical Financial Economist with a PhD in Finance from the McCombs School of Business and 14 years of experience applying rigorous economic principles to financial markets and data. I specialize in econometric modeling, financial modeling, valuation, asset allocation, and forecasting.

Throughout my career I have led portfolio management, supported M&A transactions, and produced research that influenced investment decisions — including managing a $10M portfolio that achieved a 12% annualized return and developing econometric models that improved forecast accuracy. I am proficient in R, Python, MATLAB, Stata, and advanced Excel, and I routinely analyze large datasets to detect market inefficiencies and generate actionable recommendations.

I value collaboration, clear communication, and the thoughtful application of technology — including AI and machine learning — to enhance investment processes. I bring attention to detail, independent research experience, and a track record of presenting findings to senior stakeholders that drive decision-making.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Research Analyst

Current

AllianceBernstein

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 11 months)

Conducted macroeconomic research and developed econometric models to forecast key indicators, informing fixed-income investment strategy and influencing portfolio manager decisions.

Econometrics Time Series Analysis R Python Fixed Income Research Quantitative Analysis Data Visualization

Investment Banking Analyst

Deloitte

Jan 2018 - Jan 2023 (5 years)

Supported M&A transactions with financial modeling, valuation, and due diligence; prepared pitch books and streamlined reporting processes, reducing turnaround time by 25%.

Financial Modeling Valuation Due Diligence Excel Competitive Analysis

Teaching Assistant

McCombs School of Business

Jan 2018 - Jan 2020 (2 years)

Assisted in delivery of graduate courses in Financial Economics and Econometrics, provided feedback on assignments, and led review sessions to improve student outcomes.

Academic Instruction Econometrics Financial Economics Matlab Stata Presentation Skills Grading

Head Portfolio Manager

Dimensional Fund Advisors

Jan 2016 - Jan 2018 (2 years)

Led a portfolio management team and managed a $10M portfolio achieving 12% annualized return through asset allocation and quantitative investment strategies.

Portfolio Management Asset Allocation Risk Management Quantitative Analysis Financial Modeling Investment Strategy Performance Monitoring Team Leadership

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

McCombs School of Business, The University of Texas at Austin

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Finance

2018 - 2018

Activities and societies: Teaching Assistant for graduate courses in Financial Economics, Econometrics, and Investment Theory.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Finance with a dissertation on the role of fintech in supporting sustainable investing practices and coursework in advanced econometrics and asset pricing.