Laura Winkel

Background

About Laura Winkel

I am an innovative and energetic strategy consultant with 15 years of experience driving implementation and adoption of digital transformation initiatives. As a fully immersive team player, I place a high priority on understanding client needs and achieving business objectives. While at Northwestern Mutual, I managed the planning, scheduling, testing and deploying of an agile software release for the Planning Experience (PX), a planning tool for financial services representatives. Prior to release, I also directed a user interface development team and conducted extensive research through A/B testing, focus groups, and user interviews, providing extensive recommendations. Post-rollout, I acted as a change management consultant in accelerating adoption of the PX tool. I designed the rollout strategy and messaging, and created alignment among C-Suite and key stakeholders. I delivered multiple trainings in 24 network offices, impacting financial advisors and >1M clients. What sets me apart is that I am a strong problem solver who sees projects through to completion with speed and accuracy. I’m a self-starter and team player, dedicated to serving others with empathy. Words used to describe me include fearless risk taker, direct and decisive leader, charismatic communicator, and trusted advisor. Key Competencies: Consulting: Software Release & Rollout Strategy| User Interface | User Experience Research | Agile Change Management | Software Development & Adoption | Training & Curriculum Development | Presentations Leadership: Cross-Functional Team Collaboration | Team Building | Strategic Workflow | Project Management | Project Scope Development & Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Financial Services: Sales Support | Trust Account Management | Financial Planning | Asset Allocation | Retirement Accumulation & Distribution | Survivor & Disability Income Planning | Education Planning