Operations Leader - Speciality Finance

Role Summary Operations Leader – Specialty Finance supports the operations platform of Nationwide’s Specialty Finance organization, which provides credit protection to large institutional clients. The role designs, manages, and enhances operational processes for products across various asset classes. Responsibilities Lead operational processes from premium collection through claims, ensuring execution quality, data accuracy, and strong control frameworks. Oversee process design, workflow optimization, and product- and asset-class‑specific reporting. Monitor operational service levels and performance against defined service expectations. Manage a team responsible for daily operations support, including workflow oversight and execution. Provide leadership in performance management, training, coaching, and associate development. Lead staffing decisions, workflow allocation, and team recognition efforts. Serve as primary liaison with internal and external partners, technology, Treasury, investments, controllership, policy data providers, custodians, market data vendors, and other third‑party providers. Partner across internal teams to ensure end‑to‑end processes run efficiently and align with organizational objectives. Oversee operational controls, including FRC controls, internal and external audits, and regulatory requests. Identify and assess operational risk and ensure risks are mitigated or assumed with proper visibility. Collaborate with internal and external technology and business teams to improve and streamline complex processes. Lead or contribute to strategic initiatives and projects that enhance operational resilience and scalability. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree preferred. 8 to 12 years of experience in P&C operations, investment operations, fund accounting, or related financial services environments. Deep understanding of insurance operational processes and investment products, workflows, and industry best practices. Strong understanding of financial concepts and the ability to translate business needs into scalable future‑state operating models. Demonstrated leadership in driving operational efficiency and innovation. Strong collaboration skills and the ability to build trust across teams and external partners. Broad understanding of investment technology platforms and how to leverage them effectively. Location & Schedule Location: Columbus, OH (One Nationwide Plaza, 43215) – candidate must reside within 35 miles of the office. Work schedule: 2 days in office and 3 days remote. This role does not qualify for employer‑sponsored work authorization and does not participate in the STEM OPT extension program. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage. Life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability coverage. Paid time off: minimum 18 days per full calendar year, nine paid holidays, 8 hours of lifetime paid time off, and 8 hours of Unity Day paid time off. 401(k) with company match. Company‑paid pension plan. Business casual attire. EEO Statement Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels challenged, appreciated, respected, and engaged. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company