Northwestern Mutual

Operations & Tools Specialist

Northwestern Mutual • $70K — $105K *
Milwaukee, WI 53215In-Person
Finance & Insurance
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 2-5 years of experience in operations or information systems
  • Proven experience in managing operational processes with attention to detail
  • Familiarity with reporting and data-supported workflows
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment
  • Experience with building dashboards or reporting tools, like Power BI
  • Exposure to system integrations and data flow management

Responsibilities

  • Execute and enhance operational processes for new service offerings
  • Develop processes for consistency and scalability as services evolve
  • Identify and implement improvements for operational inefficiencies
  • Partner with senior team members to enhance reporting tools and dashboards
  • Perform data validation and system support for operational activities
  • Lead or support projects aimed at improving operational processes
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure effective implementation of changes

Benefits

  • Hybrid work environment offering flexibility
  • Opportunities for professional growth and skill development
  • Emphasis on continuous improvement and learning
  • Collaborative work culture fostering strong team dynamics
  • Involvement in diverse projects across operations and technology
Full Job Description

About the Job

This role sits at the intersection of operations and systems, supporting how our services are delivered today while helping improve the tools, processes, and reporting that enable us to scale. You’ll work on both core operational processes, projects, and supporting systems, making this role ideal for someone who enjoys structured, detail‑oriented work and is also motivated to solve problems and improve how things work.

What You’ll Do

Own and Improve Operations

  • Execute and own complex operational processes that enable SPS services, including new offerings such as tax preparation and family office services
  • Help develop and refine processes as services evolve, ensuring consistency, quality, and scalability
  • Identify issues or inefficiencies and take initiative to recommend and implement improvements

Support Tools, Reporting, and Systems

  • Partner with senior team members to build and enhance tools, dashboards, and reporting used to manage SPS operations
  • Perform data validation, reporting updates, and system support activities
  • Contribute to automation and system enhancements that improve efficiency and user experience

Lead and Contribute to Projects

  • Lead or support projects and initiatives that improve how work gets done across SPS
  • Coordinate with stakeholders to gather input, track progress, and ensure timely execution
  • Support changes impacting the field, including communication and implementation activities

Collaborate and Build Capability

  • Work closely with cross‑functional partners across operations, technology, and the field
  • Share knowledge, document processes, and help build team understanding and backup coverage
  • Grow into increased ownership of processes, tools, or workstreams over time

What You’ll Bring to the Role

Experience

  • 2–5 years of experience in operations, information systems, or a related field
  • Experience executing and owning repeatable operational processes with strong attention to accuracy and detail
  • Exposure to tools, workflows, reporting, or data‑supported operations
  • Experience managing multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment
  • Experience building reporting or dashboards (e.g., Power BI)
  • Exposure to system integrations or data flows

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Information Systems, or a related field, or equivalent relevant professional experience

Skills You Have

  • Analytical Thinking: Organizes and compares various aspects of a situation to comprehend and identify key or underlying complex issues through the use of quantitative data and analysis; leverages strong business acumen, problem solving, and interpersonal skills to think critically about situations from multiple perspectives and consistently seeks ways to improve processes.

  • Continuous Improvement: Utilizes available methods to identify opportunities, executes solutions and measures impact to improve existing practices and processes. Implements feedback and lessons learned. Leverages the ability to identify and experiment assumptions and hypothesis for products to be able to refine and improve them at any stage of the life cycle.

  • Interpersonal Savvy: Relates well to all kinds of people inside and outside of the organization. Builds appropriate rapport, constructive and effective relationships. Uses diplomacy and tact and diffuses high-tension situations comfortably.

  • Learning Agility & Critical Thinking: Pursues learning and obtains knowledge continuously in relevant fields, methods, or technologies in current and future practices; continuously utilizes critical thinking to identify opportunities, execute solutions, and measure impact to constantly improve existing practices and processes based on feedback, lessons learned, and market trends.

  • Project Management: Delivers projects in alignment to business requirements, specific success criteria, and stakeholder expectations. Plans, manages, and completes projects keeping cost and time considerations in mind.

#LI-Hybrid

Compensation Range:

Pay Range - Start:

$70,320.00

Pay Range - End:

$105,480.00

Geographic Specific Pay Structure:

Structure 110:


Structure 115:



We believe in fairness and transparency. It’s 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 you’re 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.
Learn more about Northwestern Mutual
Size
7,000 employees
Industry
Finance & Insurance
* Ladders Estimates

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