Our research team
Discovering opportunities through proven methodologies
What sets us apart
Independent mindset
Examining the market beyond the conventional points of view, we employ a bottom-up fundamental process informed by proprietary quantitative screening models.
Data objectivity
We manage risk holistically and utilize a number of indispensable tools for fundamental and quantitative analysis.
Proprietary methodology
We use proprietary optimization strategies based on risk and return expectations, mathematical models, and statistical analysis to develop long-term strategic asset allocation targets.
The core of our approach
New idea generation
To determine relative and timely research subjects, we apply quantitative screening. We’re also open to finding good ideas anywhere, including analyst recommendations.
Quantitative research
We use mathematics and statistical techniques to screen for things like fundamental factors (such as valuation and capital deployment, as well as credit worthiness, duration and yield). We also look for catalytic indicators (like insider buying/selling and earnings estimate revisions).
Fundamental research
Once we’ve narrowed our research pool, we analyze qualitatively, using professional contacts and expert networks to investigate the competitive positioning of prospective investments and assess the likelihood that the portfolio manager’s strategies may prove successful.
Continuous review
We monitor holdings on a consistent basis to ensure that the investment thesis continues to play out. We also monitor portfolio risk on an ongoing basis.
Leaders guiding our research
Our diverse team of more than 75 research analysts combine fundamental and quantitative research with their unique perspectives to construct portfolios seeking the best possible risk-return characteristics for the long-term.
Tracy Pamperl
Director of Investment-Grade Fixed Income Research
Tracy Pamperl
Director of Investment-Grade Fixed Income Research
Ms. Pamperl joined Thrivent in 2023 serving as the Director of Investment-Grade Fixed Income Research. She attended the University of Florida studying finance and economics, and earned her Masters in Business Administration at Rutgers Business School. She has worked in the industry since 2001.
Paul Tommerdahl, CFA
Director of High Yield Fixed Income
Paul Tommerdahl, CFA
Director of High Yield Fixed Income
Mr. Tommerdahl joined Thrivent in 2016 and is Director of High Yield Research as well as a Senior Portfolio Manager on Thrivent High Yield Fund/Portfolio. He attended Bethel University studying Finance and Marketing and went on to earn a Masters in Business Administration at the University of Minnesota. He got his start in the industry in 2008.
Roger Norberg
Director of Equity Research & Analysis
Roger Norberg
Director of Equity Research & Analysis
Mr. Norberg joined Thrivent in 2020 serving as the Director of Equity Research. He attended the University of Minnesota studying economics, went on to earn a Masters in Business Administration at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and got his start in the industry in 1993.
Yifang Cao, PhD
Director of Fundamental Equity Data Science
Yifang Cao, PhD
Director of Fundamental Equity Data Science
Mr. Cao joined Thrivent in 2019 serving as Director of Fundamental Equity Data Science. Mr. Cao received his undergraduate degree from the University of Science and Technology of China in 2000. He received his PhD in Engineering from Princeton University in 2006. He has worked in the industry since 2006.
Theron G. Whitehorn, CFA
Director of Fixed Income Quantitative Research
Theron G. Whitehorn
Director of Fixed Income Quantitative Research
Mr. Whitehorn, Director of Fixed Income Quantitative Research, joined Thrivent in 2018. He also serves as a Senior Portfolio Manager on multiple funds. He attended University of Chicago for his undergraduate degree and received his Masters degree in Financial Mathematics from the University of Minnesota in 2012. He got his start in the industry in 2002.
Noah Monsen, CFA
Director of Systematic Alpha
Noah Monsen, CFA
Director of Systematic Alpha
Mr. Monsen joined Thrivent in 2000, and has worked in an investment management capacity since 2008. He is Director of Systematic Alpha and serves as a Senior Portfolio Manager on multiple funds. He received his undergraduate degree from Lawrence University and his MBA in Analytical Finance, Econometrics, and Statistics from University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2009.
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