The consultant works as the client’s advocate and information source to first delineate and write down the goals of the investment plan. The consultant may also be called on to create or modify the investment methodology.  Once both of these vital steps are completed, the consultant will perform analysis to determine the optimal mix of asset classes and management styles. The consultant then selects managers in the appropriate sectors and vets their bona fides. Finally, the consultant monitors the program’s performance and reports to the client.

While all the tasks outlined above are important, the real reason for employing a consultant is to gain a view of the investment program and its performance unbiased by conflicts of interest.  To perform this role, the consultant must be free of conflict themselves and be unafraid to speak the truth.  The consultant must enjoy the confidence of the client and two-way communication is vital.

Sweetwater’s independent status and wealth of historical information on managers and asset class performance as well as our outspoken advocacy for clients provides a unique perspective on today’s investment markets and valuable advice and counsel.