Senior Manager of Compensation

At Associated Bank we strive to create an inclusive culture where different perspectives are valued and recognized as strengths critical to our success. If you thrive in an environment where your growth and development are encouraged and supported, then Associated Bank may be the right place for you.

About the role

As Senior Manager of Compensation, you’ll shape how we design and deliver competitive, performance-driven compensation programs—aligning business strategy, risk management, and market practices. This is a highly visible role with direct influence on executive decision-making, organization design, and total rewards strategy. Role is only open to remote or hybrid in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Responsibilities

• Shape Compensation Strategy & Governance: Lead the design, implementation, and governance of compensation programs aligned to business strategy, pay-for-performance principles, and Associated’s Total Rewards Philosophy.
• Own Core, Incentive & Equity Programs: Provide oversight of base pay, annual incentives (including sales compensation), and long-term/equity programs—ensuring scalability, market competitiveness, and alignment to business needs.
• Advise Leaders on Pay & Organization Design: Partner with senior leaders to provide guidance on pay positioning, job architecture, and organizational design—balancing competitiveness, internal equity, and risk.
• Drive Data-Driven Decisions: Deliver insights through market benchmarking, pay equity analysis, geographic differentials, and financial modeling to support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making.
• Strengthen Risk & Regulatory Alignment: Ensure compensation programs align with regulatory expectations for large financial institutions, with strong governance, controls, and risk mitigation practices.
• Lead Annual Compensation Cycle: Oversee annual planning processes (merit, incentive, and equity), ensuring disciplined execution, budget alignment, and clear outcomes.
• Ensure Compliance & Control: Maintain adherence to federal/state regulations and internal policies while proactively identifying and mitigating compensation-related risks.
• Build a High-Performing Team: Lead, coach, and develop a Compensation team that delivers accurate, efficient, and compliant results while advancing capability and innovation.

Requirements

• 7+ years of progressive compensation experience within financial services or a complex, regulated environment
• 3–5 years of people leadership or leading high-impact compensation initiatives
• Deep experience across core, incentive, and equity compensation

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business, or related field (required)
• MBA or advanced degree (preferred)
• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) (preferred)

Benefits

• Retirement savings including both 401(k) and Pension plans
• Paid time off to volunteer in your community
• Diversity-focused Colleague Resource Groups
• Competitive salaries with professional development and advancement opportunities
• Bonus benefits including well-being programs and incentives, parental leave, an employee stock purchase plan, and military benefits
• Personal banking, loan, investment, and insurance benefits

Pay

$122,710.00 - $210,360.00 per year