Director of Operations

Overview Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 165 years. Through a comprehensive 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. With nearly $700 billion of total assets being managed across the company's institutional portfolio as well as retail investment client portfolios, more than $38 billion in revenues, and $2.4 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than five million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. Northwestern Mutual ranked 109 on the 2025 FORTUNE 500 and was recognized by FORTUNE® as one of the "World's Most Admired" life insurance companies in 2026. The Director of Operations (DOO) reports to the Managing Partner (MP) as a member of the leadership team and leads (1) Enterprise Operations, (2) Technology, and (3) Centralized Talent Department. This position takes a strategic approach to ongoing operations and procedures, while leading change with long-term vision and values alignment. The DOO drives department productivity and results through innovation, uniform processes, and deep resources. This position is full-time, direct hire, located in West Houston, Texas. Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Business Operations Partner with the Managing Partner (MP) and Managing Directors (MD) to execute strategic growth initiatives and operational priorities. Lead operational enterprise strategy, process improvement, and policy development to elevate execution excellence, utilizing cross-organizational methods to strengthen the culture of the Network Office. Drive cross-functional initiatives that strengthen organizational alignment, culture, and business performance across all offices. Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on operational planning, workforce strategy, and organizational effectiveness. Performs other duties, projects, and leadership responsibilities as assigned by the Managing Partner to support the evolving needs of a dynamic, growth-focused organization. Operations, Facilities Management & Technology Lead workplace strategy and facilities operations across the Network Office and District Network Offices, ensuring broad consistency, efficiency, and alignment across all offices. Oversee Technology Team in collaboration with Home Office Field Technology Success team. Manage procurement, vendor relationships, and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency and cost-effective use of organizational assets. Establish and regularly review all administrative procedures to ensure that the business needs of the network office and the requirements of the home office are met, and initiate changes. On an ongoing…