Principal Financial Group Inc

Manager, Client Services

Principal Financial Group Inc$84K — $152K *
US-AnywhereRemote in Raleigh, NC
Finance & Insurance
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in financial services, operations, or client services.
  • 1+ year in a leadership role managing teams.
  • Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for data analysis.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Experience in reporting and process improvement.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and develop a team of Transfer Coordinators for client onboarding.
  • Manage the onboarding process for nonqualified retirement clients.
  • Establish partnerships for successful implementations with stakeholders.
  • Oversee operational workflows, quality standards, and SLAs.
  • Utilize data analytics to enhance operational performance.

Benefits

  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) for personal needs without accrual limits.
  • Pension eligibility for retirement security.
  • Support for hybrid, in-office, or remote work arrangements.
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

As a Manager in our Non-qualified Retirement business, you will lead and develop Transfer Coordinators. They lead the onboarding and transition of nonqualified deferred compensation plans. This role oversees the transfer, conversion, validation, and onboarding of client data and assets from prior recordkeepers, ensuring a seamless client experience and timely implementation of new business.

 

This position combines people leadership, operational oversight, process improvement, and data-driven decision-making to enhance onboarding efficiency, improve service quality, and reduce implementation timelines. The ideal candidate is a strategic and analytical leader who excels at developing high-performing teams, inspiring change, and leveraging technology, automation, and AI-enabled solutions to optimize workflows and improve business outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Transfer Coordinators, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, continuous improvement, and client service excellence.
  • Oversee onboarding activities for new nonqualified retirement clients, including the transfer, conversion, validation, and transformation of plan data and assets from prior providers.
  • Establish and maintain effective partnerships with internal stakeholders, onboarding teams, prior recordkeepers, and external data providers to ensure successful client implementations.
  • Ensure operational excellence by managing onboarding workflows, service level agreements (SLAs), quality standards, and implementation milestones.
  • Utilize data and analytics to identify trends, forecast workload, improve operational performance, and support business decision-making.
  • Develop, monitor, and communicate key performance indicators (KPIs), dashboards, reporting, and operational metrics.
  • Lead root cause analysis efforts and implement sustainable solutions to improve efficiency, quality, scalability, and risk management.
  • Drive process optimization, workflow automation, and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance onboarding speed, accuracy, and client outcomes.
  • Champion the adoption of technology, automation, advanced analytics, and AI-enabled tools to improve productivity, data management, reporting, and operational effectiveness.
  • Partner across business functions to optimize processes, improve resource allocation, and support business growth.
  • Manage resource planning, capacity forecasting, operational priorities, and team workload distribution.
  • Support the testing, implementation, and optimization of new systems, software, and workflow solutions.
  • Effectively manage escalations, resolve complex operational issues, and deliver measurable service results.
Who You Are
  • 5+ years of experience in financial services, retirement services, operations, client services, onboarding, data management, or a related field.
  • 1+ years of Leadership experience, including coaching, mentoring, team leadership, or direct people management is required.
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including PivotTables, Power Query, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, data validation, reporting, and analysis of large datasets is required.
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to make data-driven decisions.
  • Experience with reporting, trend analysis, forecasting, operational performance management, and process improvement.
  • Proven track record to lead teams through change while maintaining high levels of engagement and performance.
  • Strong organizational, project management, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Skills That Will Help You Stand Out
  • Experience with non-qualified deferred compensation plans or retirement services is preferred.
  • Experience in onboarding, implementation, recordkeeping, or related financial services operations.
  • Experience with Alteryx, Power BI, Power Query, or similar analytics and automation platforms is preferred.
  • Knowledge of data governance, data quality management, workflow automation, and operational risk management practices.
  • Demonstrated experience applying AI tools to improve efficiency, decision-making, reporting, or team effectiveness, or a strong interest in adopting emerging AI technologies.
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$84600 - $152400 / year Salary Details

The following locations are examples of market-specific salary ranges across different geographies.

 

• Wichita, KS: $84,600 6 $114,300 / year • Des Moines, IA: $89,300 6 $120,650 / year • Charlotte, NC: $94,000 6 $127,000 / year • Chicago / Minneapolis: $103,400 6 $139,700 / year • Los Angeles / New York City: $112,800 6 $152,400 / 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 dont 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, Charlotte, NC, and Raleigh, NC). Youll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, were 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 WorkersandGreen Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Asset Management positions, youll 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.

Experience Principal

At Principal, we value connecting on both a personal and professional level. Together, were imagining a more purpose-led future for financial services 6 and that starts with you. Our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees. And we support our employees the same way we support our customers: with comprehensive, competitive benefit offerings crafted to protect their physical, financial, and social well-being. Check out ourcareers siteto learn more about our purpose, values and benefits.

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)7/24/2026 Latest Post Date: Careers - US7/24/2026

LinkedIn Remote Hashtag

#LI-Remote

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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