Vice President Distribution Operations Jobs in Iowa

West Des Moines 7100 West
7100 Westown Pkwy
Suite 200
West Des Moines, IA 50266, USA

Posting Title: Vice President, Enterprise Risk Actuary
Location: West Des Moines, Iowa (Mostly Off‑Site)
Employment Type: Full-time

EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa.

As the Vice President, Enterprise Risk Actuary, you will provide strategic leadership for EquiTrust's Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program, helping identify, assess, monitor, and mitigate enterprise risks across the organization. You will lead a team of actuarial professionals and collaborate with leaders across Actuarial, Finance, Information Technology, Legal, Operations, and other business areas to integrate risk management into business strategy and decision-making. This role is ideal for a collaborative leader who enjoys developing people, influencing strategic decisions, and using analytical insights to strengthen organizational resilience and support long-term business success.

• Lead and develop a team of actuarial professionals through coaching, performance management, talent development, and succession planning.
• Direct the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) function across the insurance group.
• Develop and enhance enterprise risk management programs and frameworks.
• Partner with business leaders to establish risk appetite, risk tolerances, and effective risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the corporate risk inventory and monitor key enterprise risks.
• Lead the preparation and completion of annual Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) filings.
• Present risk reporting and recommendations to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Provide leadership on enterprise governance committees and cross‑functional initiatives.
• Educate business partners on risk‑adjusted capital and risk‑adjusted return concepts.
• Support enterprise initiatives and strategic projects as needed while fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Risk Management, Business Administration, Insurance, or a related field.

• 12+ years of actuarial experience.
• 5+ years of life insurance and/or annuity experience.
• 3+ years of enterprise or corporate risk management experience.
• Experience leading teams and collaborating across multiple business functions.
• Knowledge of ORSA requirements, Enterprise Risk Management frameworks, and insurance regulatory environments.
• FSA required.
• CERA, MAAA, or FRM designation preferred.

• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to executive and Board-level audiences.
• Strong relationship‑building and collaboration skills across diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead through change in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other business technology platforms.

• Ability to remain seated and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Frequent use of computers and standard office equipment.
• Occasionally lift or move up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and virtually.

• Work Arrangements: Mostly On‑Site
• Travel Requirements: Moderate travel (approximately 10‑20%)

In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive an annual discretionary incentive bonus and access to a competitive benefits package including:

• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Holiday, and more
• Paid Parental Leave for both Mothers and Fathers
• Hybrid/Remote Work Options
• Early Friday Closure

EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E‑Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit EquiTrust Careers.