The leadership development program (LDP) is a full-time accelerated development path that builds future leaders for the organization.

LDP associates cycle across various business areas to learn the ins and outs of the enterprise. Our program offers four to six self-selected rotations, for approximately six months each.

Each rotation offers a unique growth experience with a purpose of building your understanding of the various business lines and gaining exposure to diverse leadership styles, while participating in meaningful projects. 

What we’re looking for Forward-thinking and adaptable candidates who aspire to have a future in leadership  Bachelor’s degree required by your start date  Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA as of your graduation date or anticipate having a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA upon graduation  Strong demonstration of core professional competencies: effective communication, reliability, team-oriented, organized, and self-motivated  Exceptional business acumen and leadership skills demonstrated through leadership positions, internships, or other work experience  Aptitude for strategic and critical thinking, willingness to be challenged, and openness to new opportunities and unique exposures  Initiative to lead with or without a formal title Demonstrated ability to drive results through others  Duration: Up to 36 months 
Location: Des Moines, IA

Each rotation in the actuarial development program is designed to help you learn about a different business area, while providing you broad exposure and meaningful work.  
 


Actuarial functions include: pricing, modeling, risk management, financial reporting, data analytics, asset/liability management, investments, and forecasting. 
Use technical skills to complete actuarial research and calculations and provide actuarial services and support to other departments. Recommend innovative changes to help better serve Principal customers through improvements in execution, product enhancements, and/or the use of new technologies. Actuarial development program participants must pass actuarial exams and be committed to attaining an FSA designation with the Society of Actuaries. But rest assured, we’ll lend a hand. We offer support through a competitive study program that has industry-leading exam pass rates, along with:  A supportive environment with peers taking similar exams Paid study time Onsite dedicated study facilities Exam materials including study manuals, textbooks, and study notes Exam fees Competitive exam raises What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree required at time of hire in actuarial science, mathematics, finance, or related field Ability to pass actuarial exams and a commitment to attain the FSA designation with the Society of Actuaries Knowledge of actuarial mathematics including probability, statistics, numerical analysis, and compound interest Effective communication skills and an eagerness to develop leadership talents Completion of one or more exams in the education system with the Society of Actuaries  Initiative to lead  Proven track record of academic excellence Duration: Three rotations, each lasting 18 to 30 months 
Location: Des Moines, IA

This program focuses on accelerating the development of accounting and leadership skills through rotational experiences, active networking, and delivering valued business results. During the program, associates rotate through multiple business or functional areas for six to nine months at a time.   

The rotational path of each associate is individually tailored to build your accounting acumen, leadership skills, and experiences in alignment with business goals. Through rotational experiences, individuals will receive enterprise exposure and individual mentorship. Positions could include experiences in financial and management reporting, financial analysis, internal controls, investment accounting, taxes, etc.  What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance Desire to learn and be challenged Curiosity about leading with or without a formal title Appreciation for networking and relationship building across business areas Strong sense of accountability with strong time management skills Ability to work on a team and be adaptable, resourceful, and self-motivated Ability to work within gray areas and self-start with ambiguous projects Resilience to change and ability to adapt to feedback Duration: Up to 36 months
Location: Des Moines, IA

This training program is focused on developing individuals for successful careers in sales. Our associate sales representatives learn how to partner with brokers to provide customers with comprehensive insurance solutions. You’ll start at one of our national training centers where you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of our business through intensive classroom-based study and opportunities to network and learn from senior sales leaders.  

Following this experience, you’ll be assigned a territory and get thorough on-the-job training with local sales leaders and mentors before gaining your own book of business toward the end of the 18-month program.  What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree or eight years of equivalent experience required at the time of hire Strong interest in a career in external sales Sales aptitude and positive relationship building skills Strong work ethic, self-starter, and accountability for own actions Ability to adapt to change while running multiple projects Life/Health License required within 90 days of hire Ability to work independently, excellent and persuasive written and oral communication skills, excellent presentation skills, and basic computer skills Willingness to travel within the identified territory as needed Duration:  Up to 18 months 
National locations 

Financial analysts in this program will gain exposure and experience in management financial reporting, financial forecasting, capital investment analysis, and strategic investment analysis.  

Rotational opportunities include:   Business unit financial planning and analysis (FPA) teams Corporate functions (FPA, capital markets, treasury, etc.) What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in finance, economics, or a related field One+ year of relevant analytical experience preferred Strong financial and analytical skills Advanced understanding of finance concepts Proven ability to interact with and influence people within the organization Professional presence and desire to continue to develop as a leader Comfort working to tackle complex problems within demanding time constraints Advanced Excel skills Demonstrated ability to present new information to all levels Demonstrated leadership with community organizations and/or through work experienceDuration: 36 months
Location: Des Moines, IA

Principal Real Estate Investors, a top 10 global real estate manager with over $100B in assets under management*, is the dedicated real estate investment group within Principal Global Investors. With over 60 years of real estate investment experience, our comprehensive, specialized capabilities give us a unique perspective on the real estate space and capital markets.  

Analysts will complete four rotations, six months in duration, in various real estate departments that may include acquisitions and dispositions, Asset Management, private debt origination, CMBS, REITs, marketing/new business development, and portfolio management and research.What we’re looking for Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in finance, real estate, or another related field Strong background in quantitative finance and statistics, including an understanding of basic finance concepts Real estate experience, including full-time or internship experience Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to take initiative and work independently in a fast-moving environment while managing multiple requests to strict deadlines Cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher Argus software experience Ability to make effective decisions and achieve results without close supervision Ability to work in a team environment Ability to read, interpret, and analyze loan documentsDuration: 24 months
Location: Des Moines, IA