Distribution Sr Data Analyst - Northwestern Mutual

Our Mission

At Northwestern Mutual, we’re changing the way people think about financial planning with the scale of a Fortune 100 company. We’re redefining and disrupting the industry while changing people’s financial lives with better experiences and better technology. We believe in building inclusive and diverse workplaces, where every voice is heard. Come help us build for the future!

Summary:

View the Distribution System’s finance and rewards structure broadly via helping to design rewards and then partnering to support office financials. Work with Field and Home Office Leaders to interpret office financials, influence Field Office decision making with financial analysis, and proactively identify risks, issues and opportunities for deeper analysis. Involved in the design projects involving the evaluation, resolution and implementation of Field compensation, benefits and recognition programs considering the implications of all stakeholders. Provide guidance and support to the Field consultation roles (e.g., Principals and Field financial consultants) and the Field offices you support.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Proactively identify Network Office financial issues and assist the Principals and internal management in resolving by providing research and resolution options, considering financial performance management standards, guidelines and accountabilities.

• Participate in interdepartmental projects related to the development of Field compensation, benefits and recognition for products or distribution initiatives. Perform analysis required for the assignment, including development of financial models. Manage the project work including the scope, schedule and documentation of research, analysis, modeling and presentation of implications to all partners (financial representatives, Field management and policy-owner/home office).

• Develop educational and promotional materials regarding the financial representative and Field management compensation packages. Provide mentorship to company and Field regarding compensation, benefit and recognition programs through consultations.

• Prepares financial scenarios using various financial modeling tools and concepts (Budgeting, Forecasting, NPV, value, etc. ) to advise decisions about investments in the Office.

• Collaborate with the regional team, Field business partners and internal management to assess, define or propose investment strategies for the Office.

• Regular review of financial results with Field and Home Office leaders assessing against budget, forecast and peer performance to identify areas of risk and opportunity for additional operational focus.

• Gather and review competitor information to prepare comparisons to the company's Field compensation offerings. Provide guidance to company and Field individuals on competitor compensation.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in Accounting, Finance, Actuarial Science, Mathematics or Economics

• MBA, CFA or other relevant advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred, but not required

• Minimum of 5 years of related business experience working with financial documents, performing financial analysis & modeling using spreadsheet tools

• Strong analytical skills with the proven track record to analyze business problems and make decisions

• Demonstrated independent leadership and project management skills

• High degree of personal initiative and ability to work independently managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

• Proven ability to build rapport and influence at all levels within the Home Office and Field and participate in a collaborative team environment, comfortable working in a highly matrixed organization

• 5-10% travel time required