Ask 10 people what performance measurement is or how to do it and you'll probably get 10 answers.
The Spaulding Group of Somerset, N.J., which helps money managers and plan sponsors learn how to measure performance, is out to change that.
The consulting firm has formed what it calls a non-profit "blue ribbon committee" charged with developing a certification program for individuals working in investment performance management around the globe. A recent money management industry survey the Spaulding Group conducted found that more than 75% of industry respondents back such a program.
"We got an overwhelming response," said Patrick Fowler, a senior vice president at the Spaulding Group. "I think people want to promote the advancement of investment performance management as a profession."
The committee, which has been meeting monthly since January, is made up of members of the Performance Measurement Forum, a money management industry group created by the Spaulding Group as a platform for industry professionals to voice opinions and suggestions and ask questions.
The group has 19 members. It includes Jennifer Cahill from Grantham, Mayo, Van Otterloo & Co. LLC; Darren Crowley from Pictet Asset Management; Todd Juillerat from Banc One Investment Advisors Corp.; Jean-Pierre Mittaz from Goldman Sachs Asset Management; and Lucy Schwartzman from J&W Seligman & Co. Inc.
The certification will be under the auspices of the Foundation of Investment Performance Professionals, a non-profit corporation recently created by the Spaulding Group. The certification examination is expected to be administered for the first time in November 2005.
