Associate, EMEA Product Strategy

BlackRock takes a dynamic approach to alternative investments, bringing together investment capabilities, portfolio construction expertise, technology and global resources to help clients pursue resilient long-term outcomes. We are seeking an Associate to join the EMEA Product Strategy team supporting Alternative Portfolio Solutions (APS) and Direct Private Opportunities (DPO). The role will help grow and retain client investments by translating complex private markets capabilities into clear, relevant and commercially effective client propositions. Key Responsibilities: Client Engagement and Commercial Support: + Support senior Product Strategists and distribution partners in developing and progressing opportunities across institutional and wealth channels, with particular focus on German- and French-speaking markets. + Prepare for and participate in client and prospect meetings, developing briefing notes, presentations, follow-up materials and responses tailored to the audience and market. + Build credible relationships with internal distribution teams and selected clients; respond to enquiries accurately, promptly and with appropriate judgement on when to involve senior colleagues. + Contribute to regional business planning, pipeline prioritisation and market mapping through structured analysis of client needs, market activity and competitor positioning. Product Positioning, Content and Investment Insight: + Develop in-depth knowledge of APS and DPO investment strategies, portfolios, performance drivers, implementation approaches and the broader private markets landscape. + Create and maintain high-quality client materials, including pitchbooks, product briefs, due diligence responses, case studies, market updates and educational content. + Translate technical investment concepts into clear, concise and client-relevant messages in English, German and French, working with Marketing and Compliance as required. + Monitor market, regulatory and competitor developments relevant to private markets and convert insights into practical implications for product positioning and client engagement. Product Development and Implementation: + Support product development and innovation by gathering client feedback, analysing demand and helping prepare business cases for new or adapted solutions. + Own defined workstreams within product launches, bespoke mandates and structurally complex implementations, coordinating timelines, dependencies and deliverables across Legal, Compliance, Operations, Finance, Technology and distribution teams. + Maintain accurate product, pipeline and activity information in relevant systems and ensure that decisions, risks and follow-up actions are documented and communicated. + Identify practical improvements to recurring processes, templates and data flows, including responsible use of AI and automation to improve quality, consistency and scalability. Team Contribution and Ways of Working: + Operate as a reliable, accountable team member who follows through on commitments, communicates transparently and raises client, delivery or reputational risks promptly. + Work collaboratively across locations and functions, actively seeking input, sharing relevant information and contributing to a connected and inclusive team culture. + Flexibly manage multiple priorities with discipline, maintaining high standards of accuracy and responsiveness in a fast-paced environment. + Continue to build specialist knowledge and judgement through feedback, market learning and exposure to clients, products and investment teams. Requirements: Relevant experience in asset management, private markets, investment product strategy, client service, sales support, investment consulting, research or a related financial services role. Strong interest in private markets and portfolio construction, with the ability to develop a detailed understanding of investment strategies, portfolio positioning and product structures. Demonstrated ability to