Principal Financial Group Inc

Senior Associate, Portfolio Management, Private Equity Real Estate (Data Center Team)

Principal Financial Group Inc$127K — $200K *
Real Estate & Construction
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Real Estate, Economics, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 4+ years of experience in real estate, infrastructure, private markets investing, or asset management.
  • Direct experience in managing data center investments or operations with a focus on the sector.
  • Strong financial modeling and investment analysis skills.
  • Effective communication skills for presenting analyses to stakeholders.
  • Self-motivated team player able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to travel (5-10%)

Responsibilities

  • Support portfolio strategy and investment decision-making across data center investments.
  • Evaluate acquisitions, developments, financings, and dispositions.
  • Conduct financial, market, and operational analyses to identify risks and opportunities.
  • Monitor portfolio performance and support optimization efforts.
  • Develop forecasts, financial models, and performance analyses.
  • Assist with strategic decisions related to leasing, development, and capital projects.
  • Collaborate with various teams to align investment and portfolio objectives.

Benefits

  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) policy for vacation and personal needs.
  • Participation in a bonus plan, enhancing total compensation potential.
  • Ability to work in-office or a hybrid schedule (four days in-office, one day remote).
  • Location flexibility with options in Des Moines or Chicago.
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

The Senior Associate supports the management and growth of Private Markets Real Estate's data center and digital infrastructure investments. This role combines portfolio management, investment analysis, and asset management responsibilities, partnering closely with acquisitions, development, operations, and asset management teams.

The position will support portfolio performance monitoring, investment evaluation, strategic decision-making, and asset oversight across the investment lifecycle. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, data center industry knowledge, and the ability to balance portfolio-level objectives with asset-level execution.

Strategy & Investment Analysis

  • Support portfolio strategy and investment decision-making across data center investments.
  • Evaluate acquisitions, developments, financings, and dispositions.
  • Conduct financial, market, and operational analyses to identify risks and opportunities.
  • Prepare investment recommendations and materials for senior leadership and investment committees.

Portfolio Management

  • Monitor portfolio performance and support portfolio optimization efforts.
  • Analyze investment results, market trends, and key performance indicators.
  • Develop forecasts, financial models, and performance analyses to support investment decisions.
  • Prepare portfolio reporting, market insights, and materials for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Partner across teams to align investments with portfolio objectives and business plans.

 

Asset Management & Operational Oversight

  • Support asset performance and execution of business plans across the portfolio.
  • Work with operating partners and internal teams to identify value creation opportunities.
  • Monitor financial, operational, and market performance metrics.
  • Assist with strategic decisions related to leasing, development, capital projects, and portfolio growth.

Collaboration

  • Collaborate across acquisitions, asset management, research, legal, operations, and capital markets teams to support investment and portfolio objectives.
  • Contribute to investment analyses, presentations, and strategic initiatives through effective partnership and knowledge sharing.
  • Support a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
Who You Are
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Real Estate, Economics, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 4+ years of experience in real estate, infrastructure, private markets investing, or asset management.
  • Direct experience supporting or managing data center investments, assets, developments, or operations with a meaningful focus on the sector.
  • Strong financial modeling, investment analysis, and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Understanding of real estate and infrastructure investments, including acquisitions, development, operations, and portfolio management.
  • Effective communicator with the ability to present complex analyses and recommendations to a variety of stakeholders.
  • Self-motivated team player who can manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Willingness to travel as needed (5-10%).
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$127000 - $200000 / year Salary Details

The base salary range for this role is $127,000 - $200,000. Final compensation will be determined based on skills, experience, and alignment with the role’s responsibilities.

 

In addition to base pay, this role participates in a bonus plan as well.

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 EligibleNo Additional Information

Location / Work Environment

We’re open to candidates based out of our World Headquarters located in Des Moines or Chicago. This role offers the ability for in-office or four days in-office and one day remote.

 

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering candidates 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.

https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-nonimmigrant-workers and https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-eligibility/green-card-for-employment-based-immigrants

 

Investment Code of Ethics

For Principal Global Investors 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.

 

Experience Principal

While our expertise spans the globe, we're bound by one common purpose: to foster a world where financial security is accessible to all. And our success depends on the unique experiences, backgrounds, and talents of our employees – individually and all of us together. Explore our core values, benefits and why we’re an exceptional place to grow your career.

 

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)9/21/2026 Latest Post Date: Careers - US9/21/2026

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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