Investment management refers to the process of managing money being used for investments. Investment profiles are managed through sound decisions about security purchases and sales. Investment management advisors provide investment management services including money management, investment projections, investment counseling, and investment management planning. Investment management advisors may work as individual entities or may be a part of investment management firms. Those who work for reputable investment management firms are preferred over solo agents because of their credibility and reputation. These agents are usually college degree holders who have gained bachelor degrees in business and also have relevant investment management experience tucked in their belts.

There are two types of investment management advisors, those who offer direct financial advice to individuals or businesses and those who offer asset management for corporate clients. The services offered by investment management advisors are not given for free. The usual rate charged by these advisors varies depending on the project, the monetary investment involved, or the current standing of whom they advise. They also charge higher fees to corporate accounts than they do to individuals because of the sheer complexity of the tasks when catering to larger companies. Their fees may be calculated percentages of the assets gained, annual fees, or even hourly rates.

Investment management advisors are monitored by government run agencies and private investment management associations to ensure the quality of their services. The certifications issued by government agencies and private associations protect investment management advisors and their clients alike. They are subject to laws and regulations governing money management and must meet strict requirements prior to certification and registry as qualified investment management advisors. They work assuring client confidentiality and provide complete disclosure of all investment deals. Most, if not all investment management advisors are also licensed stockbrokers to enable them to carry out investor authorized sales and purchasers.