Principal Financial Group Inc

Assistant Director - Asset Management Compensation

Principal Financial Group Inc$141K — $213K *
US-AnywhereRemote in Des Moines, IA
Finance & Insurance
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 6-8+ years experience in investment management compensation or related HR consulting
  • Strong advisory skills in business-facing compensation design
  • Ability to navigate a global, matrixed organizational structure
  • Proven track record influencing senior leadership
  • Strong analytical and communication skills

Responsibilities

  • Design and evolve global compensation programs, including incentives and pay structures
  • Align compensation strategies with business performance and growth needs
  • Act as a trusted advisor on high-impact compensation decisions
  • Analyze market data to provide actionable recommendations
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure program compliance and scalability
  • Contribute to annual compensation cycles and incentive processes
  • Provide coaching and guidance to team members on compensation topics

Benefits

  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) allowing paid time away from work
  • Pension eligibility for retirement planning
  • Remote work options available based on residence
  • Limited travel requirements (?5%)
  • Supportive work environment with opportunities for influence and leadership development
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

We’re looking for a strategic and collaborative compensation leader to join our Total Rewards team as an Assistant Director of Global Compensation. In this role, you’ll help shape how we attract, reward, and retain talent across our global asset management businesses. You’ll partner closely with business leaders and HR teams around the world to design compensation programs that are aligned to performance, market trends, and business strategy.This is a highly visible role with the opportunity to influence senior leaders, design innovative compensation solutions, and operate in a dynamic, global environment.

 

You'll have the opportunity to:

 

Compensation Strategy & Design

  • Design and evolve global compensation programs, including base pay, annual incentives, and long-term incentives
  • Help shape compensation approaches that align to business performance, growth, and talent needs
  • Bring forward ideas and insights to ensure our programs remain competitive and forward-looking

Partner with Global Leaders

  • Act as a trusted advisor to leaders across asset management
  • Provide guidance on complex and high-impact compensation decisions
  • Work across regions and teams to ensure alignment in a global, matrixed organization

Drive Insight-Based Decisions

  • Use market data, industry insights, and internal analytics to develop clear, actionable recommendations
  • Present findings and recommendations to senior leaders and governance groups
  • Help leaders understand trade-offs and make informed compensation decisions

Support Global Programs & Governance

  • Partner with HR, Finance, Legal, and Compliance to ensure programs are consistent, scalable, and compliant globally
  • Contribute to the annual compensation cycle, including salary planning and incentive processes
  • Support ongoing enhancements to how we structure, manage, and communicate compensation

Lead & Develop Others

  • Provide coaching and guidance to team members and colleagues
  • Share expertise and elevate the broader team’s compensation design capability
  • Serve as a go-to resource for complex or sensitive compensation topics

 

Who You Are
  • 6–8+ years of experience in investment management compensation, total rewards, or related HR consulting roles
  • Strong experience in investment management compensation design and business-facing advisory
  • Ability to operate effectively in a global, matrixed environment
  • Proven ability to influence and partner with senior leaders
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

What Will Help You Succeed

  • You think strategically and connect compensation to business outcomes
  • You are comfortable navigating complex stakeholder environments
  • You can translate data into clear, compelling insights
  • You build strong relationships and are seen as a trusted partner

Additional Details

  • Location: Flexible / Global team environment
  • Travel: Limited (≈5%)
Salary Range InformationSalary ranges below reflect targeted base salaries. Non-sales positions have the opportunity to participate in a bonus program. Sales positions are eligible for sales incentives, and in some instances a bonus plan, whereby total compensation may far exceed base salary depending on individual performance. Actual compensation for all roles will be based upon geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Salary Range$141000 - $213000 / year Time Off ProgramFlexible Time Off (FTO) is provided to salaried (exempt) employees and provides the opportunity to take time away from the office with pay for vacation, personal or short-term illness. Employees don’t accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided. Pension EligibleYes Additional Information

Work Environments

This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek), and remote work arrangements (only if residing more than 30 miles from Des Moines, IA.) .You'll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors. 

Job Level

We’ll consider talent at the next level with the right experiences and skills.

  

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

  • At this time, we're not considering applicants that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.
  • Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

 

Investment Code of Ethics

  • For Principal Asset Management positions, you’ll need to follow an Investment Code of Ethics related to personal and business conduct as well as personal trading activities for you and members of your household. These same requirements may also apply to other positions across the organization.

 

Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer

  • All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Posting WindowWe will accept applications for 3 full days following the Original Posting Date, after which the posting may remain open or be removed based upon applications received. If we choose to post the job again, we will accept additional applications for at least 1 full day following the Most Recently Posted Date. Please submit applications in a timely manner as there is no guarantee the posting will be available beyond the applicable deadline. Date First Posted (TTF)5/15/2026 Latest Post Date: Careers - US5/15/2026

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About Principal Financial Group Inc

Principal Financial Group Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Principal Financial Group Inc, a global leader in investment management and retirement services. At Principal, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial security and success, making now the perfect time to explore job opportunities with us.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career at Principal Financial Group Inc and contribute to our mission of empowering financial well-being across the globe. Our company offers a wide range of positions, from finance to technology, where your skills will help shape the future of financial services.

Innovate and Lead

At Principal, innovation and leadership go hand in hand. We provide a platform where your ideas can lead to groundbreaking financial solutions, driving growth and efficiency. Join our team and be at the forefront of industry-leading projects that redefine what is possible in the financial sector.

Grow Your Career

Principal Financial Group Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can grow professionally and personally. We support career advancement through professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities for networking and mentorship. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that all team members have the opportunity to succeed.

Experience Our Culture

Our culture is built on collaboration, respect, and a commitment to excellence. We believe in fostering a supportive environment where every team member’s contribution is valued. Enjoy benefits that support both your professional and personal life, and work alongside colleagues who are passionate about making a difference.

Internship and Employment Opportunities

Whether you're starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in your professional journey, Principal offers a range of internship and employment opportunities. Gain hands-on experience, work on real-world projects, and learn from leaders in the financial industry.

Join Our Team

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore the job opportunities at Principal Financial Group Inc. We are hiring creative, curious, and motivated individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead with integrity. Check out our open positions, tailor your resume, and prepare for an interview that could lead to your next great adventure.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest from Principal Financial Group Inc by following our careers blog. Get insider perspectives, tips for a successful interview, and the latest news on the financial industry that you can apply directly to your career.

Networking and Professional Development

At Principal, your growth is our priority. Enhance your professional skills through comprehensive training programs and connect with industry leaders and peers through our robust networking events. Our commitment to your development is unwavering, as we believe it is fundamental to our collective success.

Explore Careers at Principal Financial Group Inc

Discover the exciting career paths available at Principal. From internships to leadership roles, the opportunities for professional growth are abundant. Join us and contribute to a company that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving exceptional results.

Apply Today

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in the financial services industry? Search for open positions that match your skills and interests at Principal Financial Group Inc. We look for passionate, driven, and solution-oriented team players. Start your journey with us today and be part of a team that’s redefining the future of finance.

Principal Financial Group Inc—where careers grow, innovation thrives, and leaders are made.

Learn more about Principal Financial Group Inc
Size
18,600 employees
Market Cap
$20.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.3 billion
5 Year Trend
+2.7%
Revenue
$14.7 billion
NASDAQ

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