Prime Buchholz Firm Profile: Careers, Salary, and Interview Guide

Key Insights:

• The Prime Buchholz firm profile highlights a boutique investment consulting company founded in 1988 with 150 employees across three U.S. offices.
• Prime Buchholz careers progress from analyst to principal, offering structured growth, mentorship, and opportunities with mission-driven clients in education and healthcare.
• A Prime Buchholz internship provides hands-on portfolio analysis and client engagement experience, preparing students for full-time consulting roles.
• The Prime Buchholz interview process is primarily behavioral, with multiple rounds focusing on fit, motivation, and communication skills.
• Average Prime Buchholz salary ranges from $80,000 to $100,000 for analysts, with higher pay at director and principal levels.

If you’re curious about a consulting career at the intersection of finance and investments, the Prime Buchholz firm profile offers valuable insights. Known for independent investment consulting, Prime Buchholz provides opportunities to build expertise in portfolio management, client advising, and nonprofit financial strategy. Whether you’re exploring Prime Buchholz careers or wondering how much Prime Buchholz pays consultants, understanding the firm’s history, culture, and opportunities is essential. In this article, we will explore Prime Buchholz’s key stats, career path, internships, practice areas, interview process, and salaries to help you decide if this firm aligns with your goals.

What are the key stats about Prime Buchholz?

The Prime Buchholz firm profile shows a Portsmouth, New Hampshire-based investment consulting firm with about 150 employees and three offices, led by President Bill McCarron. Founded in 1988, the firm is recognized for providing independent, conflict-free advisory services across sectors like education, healthcare, and nonprofits.

Key details include:

• Headquarters: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Founded: 1988
• Employees: Approximately 150
• Office Locations: Portsmouth, Boston, and Atlanta
• Leadership: Bill McCarron, President
• Revenue: Not publicly disclosed

These stats highlight the firm’s boutique scale and specialized expertise, giving candidates a clear sense of size and leadership when considering Prime Buchholz careers.

What is the history of Prime Buchholz?

Prime Buchholz was founded in 1988 by Jon Prime and Jim Buchholz with the goal of providing clients independent investment advice free from conflicts of interest. Both founders drew on their experience as university CFOs, where they observed the need for unbiased financial guidance.

From its start, the firm positioned itself as a trusted advisor focused on nonprofits, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations. Its independence from money managers allowed it to build a reputation for transparency and client-first service.

Over the years, Prime Buchholz expanded from a small boutique into a firm with multiple offices and over 150 employees. Its growth reflects increasing demand for reliable investment consulting in sectors where long-term financial stability is critical.

What careers does Prime Buchholz offer?

Prime Buchholz careers include roles such as analyst, director, and principal, giving employees clear upward mobility within the firm. Professionals benefit from mentoring, professional development programs, and opportunities to build long-term client relationships in investment consulting.

At the entry level, analysts support client engagements by preparing portfolio analysis, financial models, and research reports. Over time, employees progress to director and principal roles, where responsibilities shift to managing client relationships, strategic advising, and leading teams.

Career highlights at Prime Buchholz:

• Analyst: financial research, client reporting, portfolio monitoring
• Director: manage accounts, mentor junior staff, lead project teams
• Principal/Consultant: provide strategic investment advice, oversee client portfolios

Employees often cite meaningful work with mission-driven clients such as hospitals, universities, and cultural institutions as a unique advantage of Prime Buchholz careers.

Does Prime Buchholz offer internships?

Yes, Prime Buchholz offers internships that mirror full-time analyst roles, giving students practical exposure to client projects and portfolio analysis. Interns gain experience in both quantitative and qualitative research while contributing to investment consulting work.

Internship features include:

• Hands-on training in financial modeling and portfolio monitoring
• Opportunities to attend client meetings and draft research summaries
• Mentorship from senior analysts and directors
• Networking within a boutique investment consulting environment

Although specific details are not always published, candidates should confirm program length, start dates, and expectations directly with recruiters. The Prime Buchholz internship experience helps prepare students for a transition into full-time careers at the firm.

What does Prime Buchholz consulting do?

Prime Buchholz consulting focuses on investment advisory services, offering clients non-discretionary consulting, implemented solutions, and outsourced CIO services. The firm helps institutions design, manage, and execute long-term portfolio strategies tailored to their goals.

Main consulting services include:

• Non-discretionary consulting: provide recommendations while clients execute trades
• Implemented consulting: provide recommendations with Prime Buchholz executing trades
• Outsourced CIO: manage day-to-day portfolio decisions on behalf of clients

This approach positions Prime Buchholz as a trusted partner for organizations seeking independent investment guidance. By combining research, portfolio design, and execution, the firm ensures clients maintain diversified and sustainable strategies.

Which industries does Prime Buchholz serve?

Prime Buchholz serves a range of industries including education, healthcare, cultural organizations, retirement systems, foundations, and private wealth clients. The firm applies its independent investment consulting expertise to institutions and nonprofits that rely on long-term portfolio growth and stability.

Industries supported by Prime Buchholz:

• Education institutions and universities
• Healthcare providers and insurance organizations
• Public and private foundations
• Cultural and faith-based organizations
• Retirement systems and pension funds
• Private wealth management clients

By working across these sectors, Prime Buchholz provides tailored portfolio strategies that address the unique needs of mission-driven organizations and families.

Where is Prime Buchholz located?

Prime Buchholz is headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with additional offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and Atlanta, Georgia. These locations allow the firm to support clients across the East Coast while maintaining its boutique size and collaborative culture.

Office locations:

• Portsmouth, New Hampshire (headquarters)
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Atlanta, Georgia

For candidates, knowing the Prime Buchholz locations is essential when considering commuting options, relocation, or regional networking opportunities.

What is the career path at Prime Buchholz?

The career path at Prime Buchholz typically progresses from analyst to director to principal, offering employees structured opportunities for advancement. Many senior leaders have spent more than a decade at the firm, reflecting strong retention and professional growth.

Career progression:

• Analyst: financial analysis, client reporting, portfolio monitoring
• Director: manage client relationships, mentor junior staff, oversee projects
• Principal/Consultant: lead strategic advisory, direct firmwide investment consulting efforts

This progression highlights the upward mobility and stability of Prime Buchholz careers, especially for those seeking a long-term consulting role.

What exit opportunities do Prime Buchholz consultants have?

Prime Buchholz consultants often transition into roles across the financial industry, including investment analysis, wealth management, and corporate finance positions. Alumni frequently secure opportunities at major financial institutions and boutique investment firms.

Common exit paths:

• Financial analyst at Fortune 500 companies
• Investment analyst or officer at asset managers
• Wealth manager or advisor at banks
• Senior roles in independent investment firms

These exit opportunities reflect the financial focus of the Prime Buchholz firm profile, positioning consultants for diverse careers in investment and advisory services.

Who are notable alumni from Prime Buchholz?

Notable alumni from Prime Buchholz have advanced to leadership positions in investment management, capital markets, and fiduciary services. These career trajectories highlight the firm’s role as a launchpad for senior roles in finance.

Examples include:

• Head ETF Market Strategist at Allianz Investment Management
• Managing Director at Vigilant Capital Management
• Executive Vice President at Fiduciary Trust Company

These alumni illustrate the strength of the firm’s training and reputation within the financial sector.

Which schools does Prime Buchholz recruit from?

Prime Buchholz recruits from universities across New England, with a strong presence at regional schools. Data from LinkedIn shows that the University of New Hampshire, Northeastern University, Southern New Hampshire University, and Boston College are among its top recruiting sources.

Target schools include:

• University of New Hampshire
• Northeastern University
• Southern New Hampshire University
• Boston College

These schools represent the primary pipeline for Prime Buchholz interview candidates seeking analyst and internship positions.

How does Prime Buchholz support diversity and inclusion?

Prime Buchholz supports diversity and inclusion by maintaining a workforce where 50 percent of staff and executives are women or from underrepresented groups. The firm promotes DEI through recruitment, mentorship, training, and community engagement.

Key DEI initiatives:

• Recruiting diverse candidates across levels
• Ongoing DEI training and mentorship programs
• Partnerships with nonprofits serving underrepresented communities
• Leadership roles held by women and minority professionals

These initiatives reflect the firm’s commitment to fostering equity both internally and externally.

What is the culture like at Prime Buchholz?

The culture at Prime Buchholz is often described as collaborative, mission-driven, and supportive of work-life balance. Employees highlight meaningful client work, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a boutique environment.

Culture highlights:

• Emphasis on collaboration and teamwork
• Client work focused on nonprofits and mission-driven organizations
• Benefits including paid time off and healthcare coverage
• Opportunities to engage in volunteer and community service

Overall, the Prime Buchholz culture combines financial expertise with a sense of purpose, making it attractive to candidates seeking impact-driven careers.

What is the interview process at Prime Buchholz?

The interview process at Prime Buchholz is primarily behavioral, with candidates asked to discuss their background, motivations, and long-term goals. Typical rounds include resume walkthroughs, situational questions, and discussions with senior team members.

Interview process highlights:

• Initial HR screening and behavioral questions
• Resume walkthroughs and career motivation discussions
• Multi-round format with senior interviewers in later stages
• Focus on cultural fit and client service mindset

For students and professionals, preparing for a Prime Buchholz interview means emphasizing communication skills, teamwork, and interest in mission-driven investment consulting.

How much does Prime Buchholz pay consultants?

Prime Buchholz consultants typically earn between 80,000 and 100,000 dollars at the analyst level, with compensation increasing at director and principal positions. Salaries are competitive for boutique firms, though lower than top-tier MBB firms.

Salary insights:

• Analyst: $80,000 to $100,000 base
• Director: significantly higher, depending on tenure and client load
• Principal/Consultant: among the top earners at the firm

These figures give a realistic view of Prime Buchholz salary expectations for candidates comparing consulting opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Prime Buchholz known for?
A: Prime Buchholz is known for its expertise in nonprofit investment consulting and outsourced CIO services, helping endowments, foundations, and mission-driven clients manage portfolios effectively. The Prime Buchholz firm profile highlights its reputation for independent, client-focused advisory.

Q: Who owns Prime Buchholz?
A: Prime Buchholz is privately owned, with leadership led by founder Michael A. Barry. Ownership details reflect its independence as an investment consulting firm serving institutional clients.

Q: How is Prime Buchholz rated?
A: Prime Buchholz is rated positively by clients for its long-term partnerships, customized strategies, and nonprofit investment focus. Ratings often emphasize the firm’s culture of independence and client dedication.

Q: Is Prime Buchholz involved in any partnerships?
A: Prime Buchholz is involved in partnerships with educational and nonprofit organizations, aligning with its mission to support community impact. These collaborations extend beyond financial advisory to highlight Prime Buchholz culture and values.

Q: Who are Prime Buchholz competitors?
A: Prime Buchholz competitors include other investment consulting firms such as NEPC, Cambridge Associates, and Meketa. Candidates researching the Prime Buchholz firm profile often compare services, career paths, and salary structures across these firms.