Northwestern Mutual

Lead Business Program Manager

Northwestern Mutual$108K — $162K *
Business Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business or Project Management preferred or equivalent experience
  • At least 7 years in project or program management with diverse experience
  • Skilled in scoping and managing cross-departmental programs
  • Experience leading large and complex projects with enterprise-wide implications
  • Strong multitasking abilities under pressure with tight deadlines
  • Excellent communication skills for building rapport internally and externally
  • Proactive with high personal initiative and motivation
  • Preferred project management certification like PMI and familiarity with project life cycle phases.

Responsibilities

  • Lead large, complex programs, managing scope, risk, business value, schedule, and budget
  • Define and revise program objectives and deliverables, creating a unified plan
  • Build and motivate team members, resolving conflicts within teams
  • Clarify program objectives and develop solutions to complex problems
  • Cultivate relationships with business clients to manage expectations
  • Identify and facilitate inter-dependencies across teams and workstreams
  • Gather and analyze program metrics to drive continuous improvement
  • Leverage deep industry knowledge to inform program objectives.

Benefits

  • Flexible work schedule
  • Opportunities for professional development
  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage
  • Employee wellness programs
  • Supportive work environment encouraging collaboration.
Full Job Description

Summary:

Provides highest level of program/portfolio management expertise and consultation to the business in order to meet department, cross-department and enterprise wide goals. Plans, monitors and manages internal business programs from initiation through rollout and ongoing program management. Accountable for aligning one or more large, complex business programs consisting of multiple efforts and/or programs supporting strategic corporate initiatives.


Program Management includes managing multiple different projects within a program / portfolio which incorporate multiple larger initiatives and overseeing programs / portfolios and initiatives which are ongoing.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Independently leads large, complex, and multi-faceted programs or portfolios. Responsible for managing scope, risk, business value, schedule and budget.
  • Defines, maintains, and revises program objectives and deliverables; accountable for defining the program structure and creating a single, unified plan to deliver on program objectives. Manages programs to ensure appropriate allocation of resources according to program objectives, specifications, deliverables, and changes.
  • Accountable for building and motivating team members and influencing them to take positive action and accountability for their assigned work. Accountable for identifying and resolving issues and conflicts within the team at a portfolio/program level.
  • Drives for clarity on program objectives, priorities, and measures. Develops solutions/recommendations to unique and complex problems and ensures program solutions are consistent with organizational objectives. Identifies, assess, and mitigates program risks and issues and removes impediments.
  • Develops strong relationships with business clients to manage program delivery expectations and implementation. Manages the resources and vendors assigned to program by verifying progress and removing obstacles.
  • Makes connections across teams and workstreams to drive identification and facilitation of inter-dependencies.
  • Responsible for gathering and delivering metrics required by the program. Uses data to make successes and challenges visible, and to drive insights and action plans to continually adjust and pursue program goals. Leveraging tools and techniques to enable end-to-end value delivery and the best ongoing rollout and ongoing experience.
  • Applies extensive business acumen in depth and breadth ofindustry, and company initiatives, products complexities, in order to incorporate knowledge into program objectives.
  • Uses extensive knowledge of program management and business requirements to understand the key business drivers as they relate to the programs. Conduct complex analysis to identify scope and nature of program deliverables; programs are intended to solve a department or business need.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors Degree with an emphasis in, Business, Project Management or related field preferred OR a significant amount of directly-related work experience beyond the minimum required for the position
  • Minimum 7 years of related experience; diverse project or program management experience to include analysis, design, documentation, project/support management.
  • Ability to work with general direction to scope, plan and manage cross-department or multi-department programs
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and manage large and highly complex assignments including those with enterprise-wide impact.
  • Ability to prioritize work and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
  • Seen as a team player and is supportive of group decisions and ideas.
  • Written and oral communications skills with the ability to build rapport within the company, field and /or outside vendors.
  • High degree of personal initiative and motivation.
  • Degree with a project management emphasis or PMI certification preferred
  • Experience with project methodology through project life cycle phases

Compensation Range:

Pay Range - Start:

$108,160.00

Pay Range - End:

$162,240.00

Geographic Specific Pay Structure:

Structure 110:

$118,960.00 USD - $178,440.00 USD

Structure 115:


$124,400.00 USD - $186,600.00 USD

We believe in fairness and transparency. Its why we share the salary range for most of our roles. However, final salaries are based on a number of factors, including the skills and experience of the candidate; the current market; location of the candidate; and other factors uncovered in the hiring process. The standard pay structure is listed but if youre living in California, New York City or other eligible location, geographic specific pay structures, compensation and benefits could be applicable, click to learn more.


About Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 160 years. Through a holistic 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. Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to millions with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. The company manages billion of dollars of investments owned by its clients and held or managed through its wealth management and investment services businesses. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance).

Northwestern Mutual Careers

Joining Northwestern Mutual presents a unique opportunity to be part of a team that is dedicated to empowering personal and professional growth, innovation, and leadership in the financial services industry. As a company renowned for its commitment to excellence and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, Northwestern Mutual offers unparalleled job opportunities for both seasoned professionals and those at the start of their careers.

Work You’ll Do

At Northwestern Mutual, we believe in building strong relationships not only with our clients but also among our team members. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the industry, all united in their commitment to leadership and innovation. Our employees are equipped with top-tier benefits and diversity training that ensure their career journey is both rewarding and inclusive.

Explore Professional Growth and Development

Northwestern Mutual is committed to fostering an environment where career growth is not just a possibility but a priority. With a variety of positions available, from financial representatives to internships for budding professionals, our company is a place where your skills and passion can thrive. We provide extensive training programs and leadership development opportunities that prepare you for success in your current role and beyond.

Innovative Work Environment

Our team at Northwestern Mutual is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative financial strategies to provide exceptional service to our clients. This focus on innovation is not just about staying current; it's about leading the way in the financial sector. Employees at all levels are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative, driving the company forward as a leader in the financial industry.

Be Part of Our Diverse and Inclusive Team

Diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords at Northwestern Mutual; they are integral to our company culture and business strategy. We are committed to creating a workplace where all employees can flourish. Our diversity training programs are designed to enhance understanding and foster an inclusive environment for all team members.

Networking and Career Advancement

Networking within Northwestern Mutual opens doors to expansive career advancement opportunities. We encourage our employees to engage in internal networking events, which often lead to mentorship and further career development. Whether you are looking to enhance your resume, prepare for an interview, or step into a leadership role, Northwestern Mutual provides the resources and support to help you achieve your professional goals.

Join Our Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level. Explore the job opportunities and internships available at Northwestern Mutual and find out how you can contribute to our legacy of innovation and leadership.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Northwestern Mutual.

SEARCH NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL JOBS

Join us and start your journey at Northwestern Mutual today, where your career is nurtured, your skills are honed, and your achievements are celebrated.
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7,000 employees
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