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Operations Director Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern Mutual

Operations Associate

Baxter, MN · On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

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 ...

Northwestern Mutual

Operations Associate

Baxter, MN · On-site

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 ...

Northwestern Mutual

Operations Associate

Baxter, MN · On-site

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 ...

Northwestern Mutual

Operations Associate

Baxter, MN · On-site

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 ...

Grand View Lodge

Director of Finance

Nisswa, MN · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Grand View Lodge is looking for a seasoned hospitality finance leader to serve as Director of ... Maintain an efficient, well-organized Finance and Accounting team; streamlining operations ...

Nexus Family Healing

Clinical Director

Onamia, MN · On-site

$94K - $110K/yr

... on operational licensing; reports incidents to the proper individuals, to include families ... Executive Director. Requirements: Required Qualifications and Licensure: * Master's degree in ...

Nexus Family Healing

Clinical Director

Onamia, MN · On-site

$94K - $110K/yr

... on operational licensing; reports incidents to the proper individuals, to include families ... Director. Requirements Required Qualifications and Licensure: * Master's degree in Social Services ...

Nexus Family Healing

Clinical Director

Onamia, MN · On-site

$94K - $110K/yr

... on operational licensing; reports incidents to the proper individuals, to include families ... Director. Requirements Required Qualifications and Licensure: * Master's degree in Social Services ...

Heartwood

Human Resources Director

Crosby, MN · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Responsible for ensuring people strategies, programs and department operations are efficiently ... Performance management of direct report and support of duty across the organization. * Responsible ...

Elior North America

Food Service Director

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$62K/yr

Food Service Director Job Reference Number: 39023 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment ... At least two years of experience coordinating food service operations. * Previous experience with ...

Elior North America

Food Service Director

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$62K/yr

Food Service Director Job Reference Number: 39023 Employment Type: Full-Time , Onsite Segment ... At least two years of experience coordinating food service operations. * Previous experience with ...

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All JobsOperations JobsOperations Director JobsOperations Director Jobs in Brainerd, MN

Operations Director information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$33.3K

$105.4K

$175.6K

How much do operations director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for operations director in Brainerd, MN is $105,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,900.00 and $132,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an operations director typically collaborate with other departments to drive organizational success?

An Operations Director works closely with leaders from departments such as finance, human resources, sales, and IT to ensure organizational goals are met efficiently. This collaboration often involves regular cross-functional meetings, joint planning sessions, and aligning operational strategies with broader business objectives. By fostering open communication and building strong relationships across teams, the Operations Director helps identify process improvements, solve bottlenecks, and support company-wide initiatives. This cross-departmental teamwork is essential for streamlining operations and achieving sustainable growth.

What does an operations director do?

An Operations Director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a company or organization, ensuring that business processes run efficiently and effectively. They develop and implement operational policies, manage budgets, and work closely with other executives to align operations with the organization’s strategic goals. Operations Directors also lead teams, monitor key performance indicators, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and profitability.

What is the difference between Operations Director vs Operations Manager?

AspectOperations DirectorOperations Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple departments, sets strategic goals, and manages overall operationsManages daily operations within a specific department or area
Required CredentialsBachelor’s degree, often MBA, extensive experience in operationsBachelor’s degree, relevant experience in operations management
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level, strategic planning, cross-departmental coordinationTeam leadership, process management, operational oversight
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations and corporationsFound in organizations of all sizes, more operational focus

The Operations Director typically holds a higher strategic role, overseeing multiple departments and setting long-term goals, while the Operations Manager focuses on managing daily operations within specific areas. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the Operations Director operates at a broader, more strategic level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operations director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Director, you need extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and a relevant degree such as business administration or supply chain management. Familiarity with ERP systems, data analytics tools, and project management certifications like PMP are commonly required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive team performance and organizational change. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient business operations, achieving strategic goals, and sustaining competitive advantage.
More about Operations Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations jobs in Brainerd, MN? The most popular types of Operations jobs in Brainerd, MN are:
What job categories do people searching Operations Director jobs in Brainerd, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Operations Director jobs in Brainerd, MN are:
What cities near Brainerd, MN are hiring for Operations Director jobs? Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Operations Director job openings:
Operations Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Director job openings in Brainerd, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $105,356 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Operations Associate

Northwestern Mutual

Baxter, MN • On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Northwestern Mutual rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 301 rated insurance

Job description

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.

What Northwestern Mutual employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Northwestern Mutual

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Northwestern Mutual has been helping families and businesses achieve financial security for over 160 years through a distinctive planning approach that integrates risk management with wealth accumulation, preservation, and distribution. With more than $290 billion in assets, $30 billion in revenues and more than $1.9 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.6 million clients. People are the power behind Northwestern Mutual, and diversity makes us better. We are committed to reflecting and serving the marketplace. We do so by attracting and improving the engagement of those who bring their outstanding perspectives, ideas, and beliefs.

Industry

Finance and insurance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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