Jun Gu ’09

Partner, Head of Manager Research, Corient
BA 2003, Fudan University
MBA 2009, Rice University

Get to Know Jun

Executive Biography

Jun Gu earned her MBA from Rice University in 2009 and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Fudan University in China. She is a partner and head of manager research at Corient, where she leads research for the firm’s $180 billion national investment platform and serves on its national investment committee. Previously, Gu was chief investment officer at Stavis & Cohen, a Houston-based wealth management firm. Prior to that, she worked as a financial journalist focused on the consumer sector. A Chartered Financial Analyst, Gu is an active member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Houston, where she served as president from 2020 to 2021 and now serves on the board. She also serves on the advisory board of the Rice University Wright Fund.

What part of serving on the ARA Board are you most excited about?

I’m really excited for the opportunity to give back to a place that means so much to me. Rice shaped so many parts of my life — how I think, what I do and the people I’ve met along the way. Joining the ARA Board feels like a meaningful way to help fellow alumni stay connected and keep the Rice spirit going strong. I’m especially excited to work alongside a group of great, like-minded alumni to strengthen ties across our community — whether you’re in Houston or halfway around the world.

What is your favorite “Only at Rice” memory or story?

As a foreign student graduating during the 2009 global financial crisis, I’ll always be grateful for the support I found at Rice. Even in such a challenging time, the encouragement from classmates and the genuine care from faculty made all the difference. I ended up finding my first job after graduation through a Rice alum and have found lifelong friendships that continue to this day. That kind of community — where people truly show up for each other — is something I’ve only experienced at Rice. It’s a big part of why I’ve stayed so connected, and why Rice will always feel like home.

If you could give one piece of advice to Rice students, what would it be?

My advice to Rice students would be to stay open-minded and say “yes” to any opportunity that comes your way. You never know where it might lead! Also, make sure to build strong friendships while you’re at Rice — those connections can turn into lifelong friendships. And of course, while you’re working hard, don’t forget to have fun. College is a time to learn, grow and enjoy the experience to the fullest.