Principal Financial Group Inc

Sr. Actuary II

Principal Financial Group Inc$157K — $213K *
Finance & Insurance
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent required
  • Fellow of the Society of Actuaries or global equivalent, or Enrolled Actuary with 10+ years of actuarial experience
  • Knowledge of pertinent laws, regulations, and Actuarial Standards of Practice required
  • In-depth knowledge of actuarial specialty and broad business acumen required
  • Continuing education as specified by the SOA or AAA
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to simplify complex analyses

Responsibilities

  • Lead the actuarial oversight of VA and RILA products
  • Evaluate key market drivers and translate insights into business strategies
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to align on business assumptions
  • Develop and manage a team of ~7, ensuring alignment on performance results
  • Shape strategic direction across pricing, modeling, and analytics
  • Provide oversight for U.S. GAAP and VM-21 financial reporting
  • Ensure rigor and improvements in methodologies and processes

Benefits

  • Flexible Time Off (FTO) for vacation and personal time
  • Pension eligibility
  • Hybrid work option with in-office and remote possibilities
  • Opportunity to participate in a bonus program for non-sales positions
Full Job Description
What You'll Do

This role leads the Variable Annuity (VA) actuarial team within Retirement & Income Solutions (RIS), with overall actuarial leadership and accountability for business outcomes across both Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILA) and Traditional VA products. Reporting to the RIS Chief Actuary, you are a key member of the actuarial leadership team, shaping strategy and driving aligned execution.

This is a highly visible role at the center of one of RIS's most strategic and dynamic businesses. You will lead a team with dedicated leaders for pricing and financial reporting, integrating those perspectives into a cohesive, decision-ready view of the business. The role combines product strategy, complex risk management, and team leadership, with direct influence on business results and future direction.
Business, Strategic & Team leadership
  • Lead actuarial oversight of the VA business, including pricing, risk management, and in-force performance, while driving decisions that balance growth, profitability, and capital efficiency across VA and RILA.
  • Evaluate key drivers (markets, policyholder behavior, hedging) and translate insights into actionable business strategies.
  • Partner cross-functionally with product, investments, finance, and risk to influence strategy, align on assumptions, and drive results.
  • Lead and develop a team of ~7, including direct oversight of pricing and financial reporting, while ensuring alignment on results and business implications.
  • Build bench strength and develop future leaders, operating effectively within a matrixed environment and influencing across actuarial, finance, and business partners.
Actuarial Integration & Execution:
  • Set direction across pricing, assumptions, modeling, and analytics.
  • Provide actuarial oversight of financial reporting (U.S. GAAP and VM-21), partnering with the reporting lead to ensure results are accurate and actionable.
  • Integrate perspectives across pricing, reporting, and hedging to deliver a consistent view of business performance.
  • Ensure rigor in methodologies and governance, while advancing key process and analytics improvements.

Who You Are

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent required
  • A Fellow of the Society of Actuaries or global equivalent, or Enrolled Actuary plus 10+ years actuarial experience required
  • Knowledge of pertinent laws, regulations, the Actuarial Standards of Practice promulgated by the Actuarial Standards Board, and the Code of Professional Conduct of the AAA and the SoA is required
  • In-depth knowledge of area of actuarial specialty and broad knowledge of several business areas required
  • Must maintain continuing education requirements as specified by the SOA or AAA
  • Strong communication skills and ability to translate complex analysis into clear insights. Expertise in using actuarial models, data, and analytical tools to drive business decisions, is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead through experienced actuarial leaders and operate at a strategic level
Skills That Will Help You Stand Out
    • Ability to integrate perspectives across pricing, financial reporting (US GAAP / VM-21), and risk management into a cohesive view of business performance
    • Strong understanding of VA / RILA products and market risk drivers, with the ability to translate into business decisions
    • Proven effectiveness partnering across functions, including product, investments, finance, and risk
    • Track record of improving models, analytics, and processes to enhance decision-making


Salary Range Information

Salary 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

$157000 - $213000 / year

Time Off Program

Flexible 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 Eligible

Yes

Additional Information

Work Environments/Locations

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). You'll work with your leader to figure out which option may align best based on several factors
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.

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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