Building a great investment team is a lot like constructing a house. It's not just about making it strong—it needs to feel right, like a place where ideas can grow and thrive. You can't rush the process, either. Every group member plays a key role in creating a foundation that can stand the test of time and deliver lasting success.
We caught up with Dmitrii Khasanov, an experienced investor and the founder of Arrow Stars, to see his thoughts on what it takes to build a productive team in the world of big money.
Data and Analytics as the Core of the Team
Every strong house starts with a solid foundation, and in an investment team, that foundation is built by analytic experts. They transform ginormous amounts of data into clear insights, laying the groundwork for informed decisions. Without their work, it would be impossible to assess risks or predict long-term outcomes.
"We always begin by asking: What's the market like? What trends are driving the industry? Where are the potential risks?" explains Dmitrii. "Analysts are the ones who help us decide if it's even worth breaking ground."
But data alone isn't enough. Analytical work needs to be precise yet adaptable—especially in emerging fields like artificial intelligence or early-stage technologies. According to Dmitrii, traditional models often fall short in these areas, requiring a blend of analysis and strategic vision to navigate the unknown.
Who are the architects of the house?
If analysts lay the foundation, the architects are the strategists. They set the direction, define goals, and determine how the different team members should work together. These could be project leaders or managing partners who see the big picture and are accountable for the outcome. Often, the architect of this "house" is the fund's founder, who brings their vision to life through a strong team.
"But again an architect alone isn't enough," Dmitrii states. For a project to succeed, you need builders—people who handle the operational work. These are the financial experts, market analysts, industry specialists, and managers responsible for the details that make plans a reality. "Everyone needs to understand their role clearly. It's not about rigid hierarchies—it's about ensuring each part of the team complements the other. That's the only way to create a system that adds value rather than drains time and resources."
What the Dream Team Looks Like
Building an investment team requires a thoughtful approach. Dmitrii Khasanov believes there's no universal formula—it all depends on the tasks and goals. That said, there are a few reliable methods he's found effective.
"Sometimes we bring in people we've worked with before—former colleagues or partners from past projects. It's a safe bet because you already know their working style and mindset," Dmitrii shares. LinkedIn is another go-to tool. It's great not only for finding specialists with specific skills but also for understanding their career paths.
Traditional job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster Jobs are useful, too, especially when you need to fill specific roles quickly. Dmitrii Khasanov also finds conferences and industry events valuable for meeting talented professionals. "These are the people who stay on top of trends and are actively involved in shaping their field," he explains.
And finally, the young talents. Internships and graduate programs are a great way to find fresh minds—people who aren't set in their ways yet and are ready for new challenges.
Communication Is the Key (Always)
Even the best specialists can't succeed if trust and mutual understanding are missing within the team. A successful band is one where people aren't afraid to make mistakes—they see them as opportunities to grow. Instead of pointing fingers, they analyze what went wrong and focus on how to improve next time. At the heart of a strong team is communication and, just as importantly, transparency.
It's also crucial to invest in your people. A true leader sets the direction and helps to grow. This can mean offering training, making decisions collaboratively, or even mentoring within the group. The more each member invests in the shared mission, the stronger the entire structure becomes.
"Team building is a long-term process that requires attention to detail, a strategic mindset, and a deep understanding of human potential. And as I said, like a house, your crew must be built on a solid foundation, but its success isn't just about the quality of its individual parts—it's about how those parts work together," shares investor Dmitrii Khasanov.
The core principles of a strong team start with data and analytics. These provide the foundation for decision-making, minimize risks, and shape the strategic direction. But data and financial models alone mean little without architects—the strategists who see the bigger picture—and builders—the doers who bring the strategy to life.
Yet, building the house is just the beginning point. To keep it standing strong, it needs constant upkeep. This is all about regularly developing members, bringing in new talent, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. Successful teams don't just learn from their mistakes—they turn them into opportunities for growth. That's what sets high-performing groups apart from those that lose their edge over time!
