Operations Associate

Cowell Financial is an established, comprehensive financial advisory firm located in the beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area. We are committed to helping our clients achieve financial clarity and security through thoughtful advice and personalized service. As we grow, we're looking for a self-disciplined, detail-oriented Operations Associate to join our team and support the administrative backbone of our financial planning practice.

The Operations Associate will work closely with the Director of Operations to ensure smooth execution of investment and insurance-related processes. This role combines client communication with backend administration and is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and takes pride in accuracy, follow-through, and exceptional client service.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Support the Director of Operations on a full range of departmental tasks across investment and insurance workflows
• Communicate directly with clients by phone and email to gather information, clarify instructions, and provide status updates
• Prepare and submit applications, paperwork, and account forms for insurance and investment products
• Execute directives reflecting client needs and internal priorities with precision and timeliness
• Keep up to date on software updates, new product offerings, and compliance requirements
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development to strengthen technical and industry knowledge

Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of financial industry required
• Post secondary degree preferred
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word
• Strong written communication skills, including excellent grammar, punctuation, and typing skills

The following qualities are essential for success in this position. Candidates should be confident in their ability to demonstrate each of these characteristics and effectively perform in a fast-paced work environment.

• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving ability
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong sense of confidentiality and adherence to compliance standards
• Welcomes and expects change and desires to work in a fast-paced, efficient, and high-performing environment
• Reliable, deadline driven, and able to prioritize work effectively
• Impeccable organization skills
• Possesses a "can do," positive attitude
• Preferred licensing: Minnesota Life/Health, or the ability to obtain prior to start date

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Long-term disability income plan
• Life insurance
• 401(k) with match
• Professional designation program
• Paid holidays & paid personal time off

David T Cowell uses Cowell Financial as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Cowell Financial is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. David T Cowell is an Insurance Agent of NM.