Investor Relations: A study of entry-level expertise and education

Today, Investor Relations (IR) is an integral part of the working of every publicly listed corporation. In the light of the growth and development in the field of IR, this study attempts to gauge the entry-level standards in education and expertise set by the industry. Using responses to online surveys administered to experienced IR practitioners, the study provides answers to research questions. These research questions are based on the tasks performed, skills required and preferred academic coursework in the field of IR. Further, these questions also explore the position and importance of communications in the IR's unit of hierarchy of tasks. The findings of this research study suggest that although skills and academic coursework in communications are important, they are considered secondary to financial understanding and business acumen. Backed by the systems theory, this study suggests constructing an integrated framework of academic coursework and proficiencies in communications and finance for the field of IR.