Financial Services Representative at Northwestern Mutual
Army captain abandons MOS and gets fresh start in financial services.
By Warren Duffie

In Kevin Kaveney’s opinion, the ideal candidate for a job as a Northwestern Mutual financial representative is someone who is a career changer, college student, or both. Which makes transitioning military veterans perfect prospects.

“When you’re leaving the military, you’re looking to make a fresh start,” said the former Army captain. “Combine that with the fact that more and more veterans are taking college classes before getting out. Northwestern Mutual is always looking for new talent, and we have a great internship program. Military personnel can complete an internship with us before they separate and get their financial services license while on terminal leave.

“Military veterans have the total package of skills we seek,” Kaveney continued. “They’re motivated, resilient, honest and have integrity.”

On the Job
Kaveney, 36, is a shining example of this. Starting in 2003 as a financial representative, he steadily climbed the ladder of success and is now the managing director of the Colorado Springs office of Northwestern Mutual – America’s largest direct provider of individual life insurance.

“I love the fact that I can help others strengthen their financial futures while still controlling my own destiny and enjoying unlimited income potential,” Kaveney said. “The biggest challenge is working within a rigorous schedule and the many demands of your clients. However, my Army career, particularly my Ranger training, taught me how to handle stress.”

In Uniform
The military always attracted Kaveney. His father was a Marine Corps officer, and the youngster had dreams of attending the U.S. Naval Academy and following in his dad’s footsteps. But when Kaveney applied, he learned he was slightly colorblind and the academy was no longer offering waivers for such a condition.

Fortunately, Kaveney had recently read “The Long Gray Line,” by Rick Atkinson, detailing the history and culture of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Attracted to West Point’s tradition of leadership, Kaveney applied and was accepted. He graduated in 1996.

He completed Airborne school and Ranger training at Fort Benning, Ga., before attending armor school at Fort Knox. During his career, Kaveney served in Korea, Colorado and Bosnia. He left active duty in 2001, switching to the Colorado National Guard.

The Transition
Before his separation, Kaveney attended transition classes and reached out to veterans in the Colorado Springs area. He befriended a Northwestern Mutual employee, who told him about the opportunities in the financial services industry.

“I had an uncle, an Air Force veteran, who was once a managing partner for Northwestern Mutual,” Kaveney said. “He told me great things about the company, so I arranged to visit the local branch office with my company contact. I liked how Northwestern Mutual was committed to service and excellence, like the military. The company is committed to doing what’s right for the policy holder.”

When he started, Kaveney completed a month-long training and licensing program, followed by a mentorship with a senior representative.

“Northwestern Mutual has great benefits,” said Kaveney, “including health insurance and a fully funded pension. I’ve also seen a big increase in income. While I’m solely on commission, if you take your military work ethic and use it in service of your clients, your earning potential is unlimited.”

Did You Know?
Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500 company and America’s largest direct provider of individual life insurance. BusinessWeek named the company among its “50 Best Places to Launch a Career” in 2009.

Kaveney’s Advice:
Trust your abilities. “The strength and discipline you developed in the military will help you conquer any fear of the unknown.”

Pursue the career you want. “You don’t have to be a defense contractor or in any other profession commonly associated with military veterans. Shake the Etch-A-Sketch around. Follow your passion and don’t be a slave to your MOS.”

Take charge of your destiny. “Use all your skills and strengths to create your own vision of success.”

“I had an uncle, an Air Force veteran, who was once a managing partner for Northwestern Mutual,” Kaveney said. “He told me great things about the company, so I arranged to visit the local branch office with my company contact. I liked how Northwestern Mutual was committed to service and excellence, like the military. The company is committed to doing what’s right for the policy holder.”

What Kaveney Likes About His Job

• Independence to create my success
• The ability to help my clients
• Unlimited income potential

The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company
HQ: Milwaukee
Founded: 1857
Employees: 5,000
2009 Revenue: $21 billion
www.northwesternmutual.com