Director of Operations

Optimized Insurance Planning, OIP, is a national firm of experienced insurance planners dedicated to a client-centric experience.  We understand and embrace a holistic financial planning process with how we approach risk management solutions to include annuities and life and long-term care insurance.  We achieve this by enhancing impactful relationships with Financial Professionals who are committed to acting in a Client’s Best Interests.

An insurance product, by itself, is not right for everyone. The way to optimize insurance is through a planning process delivered by an experienced professional.  We are committed to building lasting relationships that create memorable experiences.

The Director of Operations will be a key member of the senior leadership team, operating from our home office in Northlake. This individual will provide strategic and tactical leadership for all operational aspects of our organization. The Director will be responsible for ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of our core operational functions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and supporting our commitment to a client-centric experience and strong relationships. This role requires a hands-on leader who can manage day-to-day activities while also contributing to the long-term operational vision of OIP.

• Agent Onboarding & Licensing: Manage and streamline the onboarding and licensing process for new agents, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
• Operational Procedures: Maintain existing Operational Procedures and Guides, regularly reviewing and updating them as necessary to reflect best practices and regulatory changes.
• Carrier Liaison: Serve as the primary liaison for all carrier escalations related to licensing, contracting, and new business submissions, resolving issues effectively and timely.
• Team Leadership & Development:
  • Provide guidance, support, and mentorship to the Licensing & Contracting and Case Management teams.
  • Conduct productive monthly one-on-one meetings with all operations team members to foster development, address concerns, and align on goals.
  • Lead engaging and informative weekly department meetings to ensure clear communication, collaboration, and progress tracking.
• Commission Management: Oversee and manage the processing and reconciliation of commission reports from individual carriers, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Process Optimization: Continuously evaluate and improve operational processes and workflows to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service quality.
• Strategic Contribution: Collaborate with the CEO and other leaders to develop and implement operational strategies that support the company's growth and client-centric mission.
• Performance Management: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational functions, providing regular reports to leadership.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Finance, Insurance, or a related field is required. Master’s degree (MBA or relevant field) is preferred.

Experience: 5+ years of progressive experience in operations management preferred, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership or managerial role, preferably within a wholesale agency or similar environment.

• Proven track record of successfully managing and improving large-scale operations.

• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, process re-engineering/engineering, project management, and change management.

• Experience in managing budgets and contributing to the financial performance of operational units.

• Strong understanding of insurance products (annuities, life, long-term care), policy lifecycle, agent licensing and contracting, new business submission, and regulatory requirements in the insurance industry.

Skills & Abilities:

Exceptional leadership, team-building, and people management skills with a collaborative approach.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Excellent communication (written, verbal, presentation) and interpersonal skills, with an ability to build rapport at all levels.

Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities.

Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a dynamic environment.