Financial Planning Associate

About Northwestern Mutual Northwestern Mutual has been helping families and businesses achieve financial security for over 165 years. Through a distinctive, whole-picture planning approach including both insurance and investments, we empower people to be financially confident. We combine the expertise of our financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and leading-edge technology to best serve our clients. With $309 billion in assets, $31.1 billion in revenues, and more than $2 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.75 million people who rely on us for life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, brokerage and advisory services, trust services, and discretionary portfolio management solutions. The company holds more than $200 billion of client assets as a part of its wealth management and investment services. Role The Financial Planning Associate supports the Planning Department by coordinating, preparing, and delivering financial planning analyses, insurance illustrations, and meeting materials for Financial Representatives. Reporting to the Financial Planning Manager, this role manages planning requests, maintains departmental service standards, and helps ensure the timely delivery of accurate, high-quality planning support. The Financial Planning Associate develops expertise in Northwestern Mutual's planning philosophy, planning systems, and product solutions while serving as a trusted partner to Financial Representatives. As proficiency increases, this individual also provides guidance on planning tools, processes, and best practices to support advisor development and adoption. Responsibilities Develop and maintain proficiency in Northwestern Mutual's Planning Experience (PX), Next-Generation Illustration System (NGIS), and other planning-related tools and technologies. Apply Northwestern Mutual's planning philosophy and established planning methodologies in support of Financial Representatives and client planning needs. Build and maintain working knowledge of Northwestern Mutual's insurance product portfolio, including appropriate applications and planning strategies. Log, prioritize, manage, and execute planning requests in accordance with departmental service standards. Prepare financial planning analyses, insurance illustrations, and client meeting materials that support Financial Representative recommendations and client conversations. Communicate proactively with Financial Representatives regarding request requirements, project status, turnaround expectations, and completed deliverables. Review submitted planning requests for completeness and accuracy, providing clear, constructive feedback when additional information or corrections are required. Foster strong relationships with Financial Representatives through responsive service, consistent communication, and a solutions-oriented approach. Support Financial Representatives in the effective use of planning systems and tools, including PX and NGIS. Assist with departmental reporting, data analysis, and process improvement initiatives that enhance operational effectiveness and decision-making. Collaborate with Planning Department team members to execute departmental priorities, projects, and strategic initiatives. Support the onboarding, training, and development of future team members as opportunities arise. Upon achieving established proficiency standards, train and coach Financial Representatives on planning tools, systems, and departmental best practices. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent professional experience • Experience in financial services, insurance operations, or office management preferred • Strong leadership and team management experience • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) • Demonstrated organizational and time management skills with ability to prioritize and multitask • High attention to detail and accuracy in a fast-paced environment • Ability to proactively identify needs and implement solutions