Ben O'Brien
Investment Research and Trading Associate at Willis Investment Counsel
About
Ben L. O'Brien is an Investment Research and Trading Associate at Willis Investment Counsel, based in the greater Atlanta area. In this role, he specializes in conducting equity research and supports trading activities for the firm's Core Equity Strategy as well as its Managed Volatility and Income Strategy. His responsibilities include fundamental analysis, assisting in portfolio construction, and contributing to strategy development for both institutional and private client portfolios.
O'Brien focuses primarily on U.S. large-cap equities and volatility-managed portfolios, supporting the firm's multi-asset approach. He works closely with senior portfolio managers to analyze market trends, assess company fundamentals, and implement risk management techniques within these respective strategies.
Prior to joining Willis Investment Counsel, O'Brien gained valuable experience in investment banking at Truist Securities, where he supported deal teams in financial analysis and client-related projects. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and a minor in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations from Auburn University Harbert College of Business, underpinning his expertise in equity research, portfolio strategy, and investment operations.
Career History
| Organization | Role | Date Range | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willis Investment Counsel | Investment Research and Trading Associate | Jun 2024 to Present | — |
| Truist Securities | Truist Securities | May 2023 to Aug 2023 | Fixed Income Sales, Trading & Research |
| Sam's Place Belle Meade | Waiter | May 2021 to Jun 2023 | — |
| DoorDash | Food Delivery Driver | Mar 2020 to Aug 2021 | — |
| Vireo Systems, Inc. | Warehouse Clerk | Apr 2019 to Aug 2019 | — |
| Hillwood Country Club | Golf Shop Staff | May 2018 to Sep 2018 | — |
Education
Auburn University
Bachelor's degree, Finance, General
2020 — 2024
Auburn University Harbert College of Business
Academic Minor, Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
2022 — 2024
Father Ryan High School
2016 — 2020
Others at Willis Investment Counsel (4)
| Name | Role | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Research Analyst | Gainesville, GA , United States | |
| Chief Investment Officer and Equites Portfolio Manager | Atlanta, GA , United States | |
| Research Analyst | Gainesville, GA , United States | |
| Portfolio Manager | Atlanta, GA , United States |