Compliance Analyst - Broker Dealer Product Support

Principal Financial Group; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Principal Financial Group is seeking a compliance professional to independently conduct regulatory research, analyze data, identify risk exposures, and support broker-dealer regulatory obligations within the Principal family of products and services.

You will design policies, assist testing and examinations, prepare reports, and mentor colleagues while collaborating across teams to drive compliance initiatives and continuous process improvements.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in financial services with regulatory exposure.
• Experience in compliance products, markets, and regulations (SEC/FINRA/state/federal).
• Familiarity with AML, KYC, GDPR where applicable.

Responsibilities

• Data analysis: gather, organize, and summarize information from compliance sources.
• Regulatory research: interpret laws and prepare actionable reports.
• Risk management: monitor activities and assist in testing and examinations.
• Communications & reporting: write clear compliance reports, filings, and procedures.
• Process improvement: help draft and implement policies and controls.

Skills

Financial services experience

Written & verbal communication

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Relationship-building

Consulting & influencing

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

What You'll Do

This role supports compliance functions of the Principal Securities and Principal Funds Distributor broker dealers by independently conducting regulatory research, interpreting developments, and identifying risk exposures related to broker dealer obligations in the domestic Principal product and services and their distribution. The role is part of a compliance practice group broadly supporting broker‑dealer compliance for the retirement, insurance and asset management offerings of Principal. Responsibilities include assisting in the design and drafting of policies and procedures, participating in testing and examinations, preparing reports and filings, recommending corrective actions, mentoring colleagues, and contributing to process enhancements. The role engages broadly across internal teams, supports implementation of compliance initiatives, and begins to operate with increased independence.

• Data Analysis – Gather and organize information from multiple sources (e.g., compliance reports, audit results, incident logs, regulatory documents). Compile, aggregate, and analyze data using basic statistics; identify patterns, trends, or anomalies to support compliance decisions. Use tools like Excel (formulas, charts), introductory SQL, and visualization platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) to structure and present data. Ensure accuracy and completeness of data; correct errors, double‑check entries, and summarize findings for reporting and decision‑making.
• Regulatory Research – Conduct research on laws, regulations, and industry standards (e.g., AML, KYC, GDPR, HIPAA, market conduct) to support compliance initiatives. Stay informed on regulatory developments by using legal databases, publications, and other reliable sources. Interpret legal language and compile findings into clear, actionable reports that highlight potential business impacts. Support regulatory examinations and documentation by reviewing sources and maintaining thorough records. Assist with tracking and reporting on regulatory changes that may affect business operations.
• Risk Management – Monitor business activities and review materials (e.g., training, policies) to identify compliance risks and exposures. Assist with compliance testing, compliance monitoring and examinations; facilitate documentation requests and analyze findings. Support identification of corrective actions based on internal policies and external regulations. Apply risk management principles under supervision; elevate issues and begin assessing regulatory impacts on risk profiles. Review and approve deliverables using a risk‑based approach to decision‑making to support business goals while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Communications & Reporting – Write clear, concise compliance reports, filings, policies, training materials and procedures. Present findings and recommendations to various audiences; participate in meetings and training sessions. Maintain accurate records of compliance activities; update documentation and elevate issues when needed. Handle correspondence with auditors and regulators; explain requirements and findings in accessible language.
• Process Improvement – Assist in drafting and implementing compliance policies, procedures, and controls. Document current workflows; identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, or error points.Propose and communicate practical improvements; gather metrics and feedback to support changes.Participate in improvement initiatives by collaborating with team members and applying structured problem‑solving and process enhancement methodologies.

Positioned where financial services meet technology, Principal creates financial tools that assist our customers in living better lives. We are proud to be a purpose‑oriented organization, guided by our mission to ensure financial security is within everyone's reach. Our mission, integrity, and customer dedication have made us a reliable leader for more than 140 years!

Who You Are

• 4+ years of relevant financial services experience demonstrated through one or a combination of the following: work experience, training, military experience or education.
• Previous compliance experience within financial services industry preferred.
• FINRA licensing may be required.
• Familiarity with financial service products, markets, laws and regulations (SEC/FINRA/state/federal, AML, KYC, GDPR).
• Experience in a product manufacturing/wholesale distribution broker‑dealer structure preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex information to diverse audiences.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proven consulting, influencing, and relationship‑building skills.