Director, Middle Office Accounting Operations Asset Management

Director, Middle Office Accounting Operations Asset Management

Principal Financial Group is seeking a Director, Middle Office Accounting Operations Asset Management! The Director will lead the day-to-day operations of one or more investment operations functions within Principal Asset Management. Partner with leadership to develop, implement, and manage strategies, policies, and procedures that drive operational excellence, support growth, and ensure compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Provide leadership and direction for assigned investment operations areas, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Oversee execution of strategies, policies, and plans, setting clear expectations and measurable outcomes. Monitor performance, adjust priorities as needed, and hold teams accountable for results. Partner with stakeholders to develop proactive, globally aligned plans that consider cultural and geographic differences. Collaborate across the organization and with external partners to enhance processes, resolve complex issues, and share best practices. Lead, coach, and develop staff, fostering a culture of ownership, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Make sound, timely business decisions with consideration for global and ethical implications. Promote a risk-aware culture through proactive problem-solving and root cause analysis.

Skills that Help You Stand Out

Proven leadership experience in investment operations or a related financial services function. Strong strategic planning, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to lead through change, motivate teams, and deliver measurable results.

Who You Are

Bachelors degree required; MBA preferred. 10+ years of investment or mutual fund operations (or related field) experience, including 5+ years in leadership. Deep knowledge of investment products, securities processing, and related technology. Strong understanding of investment markets, securities, and performance measurement techniques. Proven leadership skills with the ability to build, lead, and motivate high-performing teams. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and influence skills. Strong analytical, decision-making, and project management capabilities. Ability to anticipate needs, design solutions, and execute operational plans. Skilled in prioritizing work, managing time effectively, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Successful completion of a criminal background check required.

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 (Non-Exempt expressed as hourly; Exempt expressed as yearly) $137,000 - $185,000 / 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 dont accrue a bank of time off under FTO and there is no set number of days provided.

Work Environments

This role offers in-office, hybrid (blending at least three office days in a typical workweek) in our Des Moines, Iowa corporate office. We will consider relocation as part of the offer. We will consider candidates within driving distance who are able to come in office multiple times a week.

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.

Principal is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.