Financial Planning Specialist

As a wealth management firm, we help clients step away from the noise and complexity of daily life to develop thoughtful, strategic financial plans that work quietly behind the scenes. Our comprehensive approach helps to establish confidence and financial security so our clients can focus their time and energy on what matters most. Whether supporting individuals, families, or business owners, our team is deeply committed to delivering exceptional service and long‑term guidance.

The Financial Planning Specialist plays a critical role by performing a variety of client service and financial planning functions. They serve as the primary link between our internal departments, corporate office, and the Wealth Management Advisor to support the clients we serve. The Financial Planning Specialist will partner closely with the Wealth Management Advisor and others on the team to support fostering and developing impactful, enduring client relationships. This is an ideal position for someone with a passion for personal finance, is self-motivated, and has a strong work ethic. This position is located in the Northwestern Mutual – Minneapolis District Office, located at 225 S 6th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:  

Create detailed and comprehensive financial planning proposals incorporating insurance, retirement, education, and investment strategies

Input, organize, and maintain accurate client data

Run scenario analyses, including retirement, tax, cash flow, and insurance planning

Serve as a strategic partner to the Wealth Management Advisor in developing client solutions and recommendations

Manage client communications, including correspondence, documentation, and compliant recordkeeping

Prepare materials for new and existing client meetings

Collaborate closely with the Wealth Management Advisor and other team members to support ongoing client relationships

Stay current on software enhancements, new products, and compliance updates

Maintain a high level of professionalism while handling confidential and sensitive information

Participate in ongoing learning, development, and training opportunities

Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s degree required

2+ years of financial planning or paraplanning experience required

Active Minnesota Life, Accident, and Health (LAH) Insurance license

Active SIE, Series 6, and Series 63 registrations (or equivalent)

Client Relationship Management (CRM) system experience preferred

 Performance Skills: 

High sense of urgency, attention to detail, and exceptional organizational skills 

Excellent oral and written communication skills 

Task-minded with the ability to follow through and execute in a timely manner 

High degree of initiative and autonomy 

Demonstrated ability to maintain effective working relationships within the firm and its clients 

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC), and Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (Investment Brokerage Services), a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, and member of FINRA and SIPC. To view detailed disclosures regarding individual representatives, view their information at https://www.northwesternmutual.com/financial/advisor/joshua-t-howard/