Director of Operations

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165 years. Through a comprehensive planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. With nearly $700 billion of total assets being managed across the company's institutional portfolio as well as retail investment client portfolios, more than $38 billion in revenues, and $2.4 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than five million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. Northwestern Mutual ranked 109 on the 2025 FORTUNE 500 and was recognized by FORTUNE® as one of the "World's Most Admired" life insurance companies in 2026.

The Director of Operations (DOO) reports to the Managing Partner (MP) as a member of the leadership team and leads (1) Enterprise Operations, (2) Technology, and (3) Centralized Talent Department. This position takes a strategic approach to ongoing operations and procedures, while leading change with long-term vision and values alignment. The DOO drives department productivity and results through innovation, uniform processes, and deep resources.

• Partner with the Managing Partner (MP) and Managing Directors (MD) to execute strategic growth initiatives and operational priorities.
• Lead operational enterprise strategy, process improvement, and policy development to elevate execution excellence, utilizing cross-organizational methods to strengthen the culture of the Network Office.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives that strengthen organizational alignment, culture, and business performance across all offices.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on operational planning, workforce strategy, and organizational effectiveness.
• Performs other duties, projects, and leadership responsibilities as assigned by the Managing Partner to support the evolving needs of a dynamic, growth-focused organization.

• Lead workplace strategy and facilities operations across the Network Office and District Network Offices, ensuring broad consistency, efficiency, and alignment across all offices.
• Oversee Technology Team in collaboration with Home Office Field Technology Success team.
• Manage procurement, vendor relationships, and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effective use of organizational assets.
• Establish and regularly review all administrative procedures to ensure that the business needs of the network office and the requirements of the home office are met, and initiate changes.
• On an ongoing basis, inspect the office space, order necessary repairs or recommend replacement or improvement when necessary.
• Establish, implement, and maintain adequate security and safety procedures.
• Recommend alterations in space planning to meet the needs of agency growth. Coordinate moves or expansions as necessary.
• Research available technology and recommend changes in equipment as necessary.
• Recommend the purchase and ensure proper maintenance of office equipment, furniture, and office supplies.

• Strategically lead, evolve, and scale centralized services supporting advisors and ensemble practices (Financial Planning Services and Client Relations Center), working across teams to execute in specialty areas​.
• As the main point of contact to partner with our Professional Employment Organization (PEO), manage HRIS systems, policies, and operational processes to create an efficient, uniform, scalable, and consistent employee experience.
• Manage employee benefits administration, including plan analysis and serve as the primary liaison with Home Office benefits partners.
• Provide guidance and expertise to leadership on employee relations, policy interpretation, and HR best practices.
• Leads the recruitment, interviewing, and hiring of high-quality office managers and support team members, while recommending appropriate staffing levels and skill requirements to the Managing Partner.
• Oversees the onboarding, training, and development of team members, ensuring they are equipped to perform their responsibilities effectively and that adequate cross-training exists to maintain operational coverage.
• Establishes and maintains support team infrastructure, including job descriptions, employee records, and coordination of offer-related scheduling.
• Holds support team members accountable to performance standards by implementing procedures to document performance issues, provide coaching, and, when necessary, manage disciplinary action and termination processes.

• Identify opportunities and develop organizational initiatives and programs to foster a culture of learning through improved and innovative communications, outreach, and staff engagement.
• Build strong relationships with advisors, leaders, and staff to encourage collaboration, participation, and referrals.
• Drive initiatives that enhance employee engagement, strengthen organizational culture, and support advisor success.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, Human Resources, Management, or a related field required.
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, business management, human resources, or financial services.
• Demonstrated success leading large-scale operational initiatives and driving organizational growth.
• Experience developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of engagement and accountability.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to influence and partner effectively with senior leadership.
• Proven ability to lead change, improve processes, and drive operational excellence.
• Exceptional communication, project management, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience within wealth management, financial services, insurance, or professional services.

• Life & Health Insurance License
• FINRA Series 6 or 7
• FINRA Series 63 or 66
• FINRA Series 24