Wilshire Associates: Complete Guide to Careers Culture and Interviews

For over 50 years, Wilshire Associates has been a leader in investment management and consulting known for its pioneering Wilshire 5000 Index, innovative analytics, and client-focused advisory services. Whether you’re exploring Wilshire Associates careers or curious about what it’s like to work at this global financial consulting firm, understanding its history, culture, and opportunities can help you decide if it’s the right fit.

TL;DR – What You Need to Know

Wilshire Associates is a global investment management and consulting firm offering analytics, portfolio management, and advisory services to clients across diverse industries worldwide.

• Founded in 1972, Wilshire Associates pioneered the Wilshire 5000 Index and remains a leader in technology-driven financial consulting.
• The firm’s core practice areas include investment consulting, asset management, analytics, and financial indexes.
• Wilshire operates offices in the US, UK, Europe, and Asia, supporting global investment consulting and internship opportunities.
• Wilshire Associates careers provide clear advancement paths, professional development, and mentorship across consulting, finance, and research roles.
• Competitive salaries, inclusive culture, and strong exit opportunities make Wilshire a top choice for finance and consulting professionals.

What Is Wilshire Associates and What Does the Firm Do?

Wilshire Associates is a global investment management and consulting firm that provides portfolio management, financial analytics, and advisory services to institutional and individual clients. Known for the Wilshire 5000 Index, the firm helps organizations optimize investments, manage risk, and design data-driven financial strategies through its technology-enabled consulting expertise.

Founded in 1972, Wilshire Associates has built a reputation for combining analytical precision with innovative financial technology. Its approach integrates deep quantitative research and data modeling, making it a trusted partner for organizations seeking informed investment strategies and market insights.

Wilshire’s business is organized into four main areas:

• Investment Consulting: Offers asset allocation, manager research, and risk assessment for pension funds, corporations, and foundations.
• Investment Management: Manages discretionary portfolios and private market strategies across multiple asset classes.
• Analytics and Research: Delivers advanced tools for performance evaluation, portfolio optimization, and peer benchmarking.
• Financial Indexes: Oversees well-known indexes such as the Wilshire 5000 and Wilshire 4500, along with digital asset benchmarks.

The firm’s clients span industries including financial advisory, asset management, and public institutions, all relying on Wilshire’s blend of market intelligence and analytical tools. For consulting and finance professionals, Wilshire Associates offers a strong foundation for developing expertise in portfolio management, risk analytics, and investment research within a technology-driven environment.

Wilshire Associates History and Leadership

Founded in 1972 by Dennis Tito, Wilshire Associates began as a technology firm focused on applying computing power to finance. Over time, it evolved into a leading investment management and consulting company. Today, the firm is led by CEO Mark Makepeace and remains known for innovation, integrity, and global impact.

Wilshire Associates was established during a period when financial institutions were first exploring computer-based modeling. Dennis Tito, a former NASA engineer, recognized the potential to merge computing with investment analysis. His vision led to the creation of the Wilshire 5000 Index in 1974 a comprehensive measure of the total U.S. equity market that remains one of the firm’s most recognized contributions.

Key milestones in Wilshire’s history include:

• 1970s: Development of early performance measurement and asset/liability modeling tools for pension funds.
• 1980s: Expansion into investment consulting and the launch of Wilshire’s first discretionary management products.
• 1990s to 2000s: Growth into private markets, venture capital, and analytics-driven investment services.
• 2021: Acquisition by CC Capital and Motive Partners, marking a new chapter of digital expansion.

Under Mark Makepeace, a veteran of global index development, Wilshire has strengthened its position as a technology-forward investment advisory firm. The leadership team continues to focus on innovation in financial analytics, risk management, and sustainable investing.

Wilshire’s emphasis on experienced leadership, combined with a data-driven culture, has helped it maintain credibility across global markets. The firm’s longevity and consistent evolution reflect its ability to adapt to changing investment landscapes while retaining its analytical roots.

Wilshire Associates Practice Areas and Industries

Wilshire Associates operates across investment consulting, asset management, analytics, and financial indexes. The firm serves institutional investors, corporations, and public organizations, helping them make data-informed decisions through customized strategies that integrate technology, research, and risk management expertise.

Wilshire’s multi-disciplinary model allows it to offer end-to-end financial consulting solutions under one brand. Its consulting teams advise clients on portfolio construction, performance evaluation, and manager selection, while its analytics division builds proprietary systems to model investment outcomes and assess risk exposure.

Core Practice Areas:

• Investment Consulting: Provides strategic advice on asset allocation, manager research, and portfolio governance.
• Investment Management: Manages multi-asset portfolios, private equity funds, and hedge fund solutions.
• Analytics and Research: Offers quantitative tools and investment databases for performance and peer analysis.
• Financial Indexes: Maintains flagship benchmarks such as the Wilshire 5000, 4500, and digital asset indexes.

Key Industries Served:

• Financial Advisory and Intermediaries: Core clients including institutional investors and pension plans.
• Public and Corporate Sectors: Providing customized investment frameworks and consulting support.
• Private Markets: Supporting alternative asset strategies and private capital investments.

Wilshire’s diversified practice model positions it between technology-driven analytics providers and traditional investment firms. For consulting candidates, this structure provides exposure to cross-industry projects that combine financial expertise with analytical innovation.

Wilshire Associates Locations and Global Presence

Wilshire Associates maintains offices in Santa Monica, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, Chicago, Denver, and London, with affiliate branches in Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and Suzhou, China. This global footprint allows the firm to deliver investment consulting and analytics services to clients across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Wilshire’s headquarters in Santa Monica, California, remains its strategic hub for leadership and product development. Its New Jersey and Pittsburgh offices support investment consulting, while Chicago and Denver focus on analytics and client services. The London location anchors the firm’s European presence and collaboration with international institutional investors.

Affiliate Locations:

• Wilshire Europe B.V. in Amsterdam
• Wilshire Hong Kong Ltd.
• Suzhou Wilshire Investment Services Co., Ltd. in Jiangsu, China

This international network enables Wilshire to offer 24-hour client coverage, regional market expertise, and a diverse consulting perspective. For applicants pursuing Wilshire Associates internships, global exposure and rotational opportunities across offices are a key draw.

Wilshire Associates Careers and Professional Growth

Wilshire Associates careers offer opportunities across investment consulting, research, and analytics. Employees develop expertise in portfolio management, financial modeling, and client advisory while receiving formal training and mentorship. The firm emphasizes professional growth through structured development programs and regular access to senior leadership.

Career paths at Wilshire vary by business area:

• Consulting: Associate → Senior Associate → Consultant → Senior Consultant
• Research: Research Associate → Analyst → Senior Analyst
• Finance: Financial Analyst → Investment Analyst → Portfolio Manager
• Corporate/Business: Assistant Vice President → Vice President → Director → Managing Director

Wilshire’s learning culture encourages cross-functional collaboration and continuing education in areas like data analytics, risk modeling, and sustainability. Employees benefit from exposure to both strategic and technical aspects of investment consulting, preparing them for leadership roles in finance and beyond.

Wilshire Associates Internship Opportunities

Wilshire Associates internships provide hands-on experience in investment consulting, analytics, and research. Interns work with senior consultants and analysts on live projects, gaining exposure to client engagements and financial modeling. These paid internships emphasize both professional learning and practical contribution to the firm’s operations.

Internship programs are available for undergraduate and graduate students across several business areas. Wilshire offers positions in investment management, data analytics, and research, typically lasting 10 to 12 weeks. Participants receive mentorship, structured feedback, and opportunities to present findings to senior leadership.

Key benefits of interning at Wilshire include:

• Exposure to real-world consulting and portfolio analytics
• Training in financial tools and performance evaluation
• Networking with professionals across global offices
• Pathways to full-time analyst roles after graduation

For students pursuing a career in investment consulting or financial analytics, Wilshire’s internship serves as a practical foundation for future consulting or asset management roles.

Wilshire Associates Interview Process and Tips

The Wilshire Associates interview process typically includes a phone screening, two Zoom interviews, and a case assessment. Candidates are evaluated on analytical skills, communication, and cultural fit. Preparation should focus on technical finance concepts and clear, structured problem-solving during case discussions.

The process begins with an initial HR or recruiter call, followed by two virtual rounds:

1. Behavioral Interview: Assessing fit, motivation, and teamwork.
2. Technical Interview: Covering investment concepts, financial modeling, and data interpretation.

The final step involves a case interview, where candidates solve a realistic investment scenario within their target business area. Applicants should practice case structures, clarify assumptions, and present logical, data-backed recommendations.

Interview tips for candidates:

• Research Wilshire’s practice areas and recent initiatives.
• Practice explaining financial frameworks clearly.
• Highlight teamwork and communication in past experiences.

How Much Does Wilshire Associates Pay Consultants?

Wilshire Associates offers competitive salaries across consulting and finance roles. Analysts typically earn around $110,000 annually, with compensation increasing to over $300,000 for Vice Presidents and up to $595,000 for Managing Directors, reflecting the firm’s emphasis on performance and long-term career growth.

Average Salary by Role:

• Analyst: $110,000
• Senior Analyst: $173,000
• Assistant VP: $225,000
• Vice President: $306,000
• Senior VP: $425,000
• Director: $340,000
• Managing Director: $595,000

These figures are consistent with compensation across major investment consulting firms. For entry-level professionals, Wilshire also provides comprehensive benefits including performance bonuses, retirement contributions, and professional development support.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Wilshire Associates

Wilshire Associates promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion through structured programs, mentorship, and mandatory training. Initiatives such as the Gender Diversity Awareness Committee support women in leadership, while the Diverse-Owned Manager Initiative advances equitable access to capital across the investment industry.

Wilshire’s DEI framework focuses on awareness, accountability, and measurable progress. Employees participate in training that addresses unconscious bias and inclusive collaboration. The Gender Diversity Awareness Committee provides mentorship and development opportunities for women professionals seeking senior roles.

The firm’s leadership reinforces DEI objectives through transparent policies and regular reporting. Beyond internal initiatives, Wilshire collaborates with clients to promote diversity in asset management and investment selection processes.

Wilshire Associates Culture and Work Environment

The Wilshire Associates culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Employees are encouraged to share diverse perspectives, take ownership of projects, and maintain transparency in client relationships. The firm values curiosity, teamwork, and a commitment to delivering long-term results.

Wilshire fosters an environment that blends analytical rigor with open communication. Teams often collaborate across offices, encouraging cross-functional problem-solving and knowledge exchange. Managers emphasize professional respect and accountability while supporting flexibility and work-life balance.

Employees describe the culture as both challenging and rewarding one where intellectual curiosity and client impact are equally valued.

Exit Opportunities After Working at Wilshire Associates

After working at Wilshire Associates, professionals often transition to roles in asset management, private equity, or financial technology. The firm’s emphasis on data analytics, client strategy, and investment research equips employees with skills that translate across the broader consulting and finance landscape.

Common exit paths include:

• Asset Management and Hedge Funds
• Private Equity and Venture Capital
• Financial Analytics and Technology Firms
• Corporate Strategy Roles in Financial Institutions

Wilshire’s combination of consulting experience and quantitative expertise gives its alumni a competitive edge. Many leverage their experience to lead investment teams, launch funds, or advise institutional clients independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Wilshire Associates do in investment consulting?
A: Wilshire Associates provides investment consulting services that help institutional clients design portfolios, evaluate asset managers, and manage risk through data-driven financial analysis.

Q: Who owns Wilshire Associates today?
A: Wilshire Associates is owned by CC Capital and Motive Partners, private investment firms that acquired the company in 2021 to support its global expansion and digital growth.

Q: How many companies are in the Wilshire 5000 Index?
A: The Wilshire 5000 Index currently includes around 3,500 to 4,000 publicly traded U.S. companies, reflecting nearly the entire investable U.S. equity market.

Q: What is it like to work at Wilshire Associates?
A: Working at Wilshire Associates offers a collaborative and analytical environment where employees gain exposure to global clients, data-driven projects, and structured professional development.

Q: How much does Wilshire Associates pay consultants?
A: Wilshire Associates pays consultants an average annual salary of about $189,000, with higher compensation for senior roles and performance-based bonuses.