Financial Analyst - Associate Financial Services

Baird is an employee-owned firm, and the Associate Financial Services (AFS) team actively administers the firm's shareholder and compensation programs, and processes the firm's payroll, accounts payable and employee expenses to support Baird's shareholders, associates and businesses. The AFS team has extensive interaction with both the Legal and Human Resources Departments and operates within a collaborative team environment.

This role supports Baird and our Private Wealth Management (PWM) associates through administering PWM's compensation programs. Members of the team regularly assist associates with questions on these programs.

We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual who is eager to learn, collaborate, is proactive and ready to contribute to Baird's success.

As a Financial Analyst - Associate Financial Services, you will have exposure to:

• Client Service: Assist associates by serving as a point of contact for questions and educating associates on PWM compensation programs. Assist in the development of client communications and training. Work closely with PWM, Legal and Human Resources on associate related matters. Prepares ad hoc data requests and reporting to associates and PWM business unit.

• Non-Qualified Compensation: Work closely with team and the plans' third-party administrator on participant communication planning, new awards and distributions and issues resolution. Assist in the preparation of Baird's annual regulatory filing and coordination of the annual subordinated loan process. Prepare monthly mutual fund transactions.

• Branch Leader and Financial Advisor Compensation Plans: Assist with annual compensation plan process and ongoing plan administration, working closely with team and PWM to meet strategic objectives. Understand business needs and assist with testing new functionality and reporting within Baird's commissions compensation system.

• Financial Close: Participate in the monthly close process by preparing journal entries for compensation activity and preparing account reconciliations.

• Special Projects: Participate in key team-wide, department-wide, PWM-specific and firm-wide initiatives to improve overall performance and support strategic initiatives.

What makes this opportunity great:

• Ability to work with a variety of teams and leaders across the firm, proving your ability to be highly adaptable and build strong relationships.

• Fast paced and dynamic environment enabling you to grow as a professional.

• Team of associates passionate about achieving great results for associates and the firm, including giving back to the communities where we live and work.

• Unique culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives, while emphasizing teamwork and a strong sense of partnership and client service.

What we look for:

• Bachelor's degree in Business (Accounting or Finance preferred); 0-2 years employment experience.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with an emphasis on exceptional client service and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

• Problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to take ownership as needed with a desire for continual learning.

• Attention to detail, accuracy and reliability with a drive for continuous improvement.

• Produces high quality, timely and accurate work product.

• Organizational and time management skills with the ability to work independently, complete multiple concurrent responsibilities, proactively communicate and take initiative.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office products with an emphasis on Excel. Power BI experience preferred.

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Commitment to Inclusion & Diversity

Baird is committed to inclusion & diversity for our clients, our associates and the communities where we live and work. This commitment stems from our culture of integrity, genuine concern for others and respect for the individual. We view inclusion & diversity as an ongoing journey - one of shared responsibility, continuous improvement and a focus on progress. We invite you to join us as we work together to foster an environment where diversity unites rather than divides us. Learn more here.