Cole Kosnick
Verona,WI
Summary
C-Suite sales leader and business development professional with experience building and growing a book of business in a highly competitive, performance based environment at a Fortune 500 firm. Background in consultative, relationship-based sales with a focus on generating new business, managing client relationships, and driving consistent results. Progressed into leadership roles through strong performance, accountability, and the ability to develop others. I bring a disciplined approach to prospecting, pipeline management and closing, along with a reputation for follow-through and reliability. Focused on contributing to a team where results, growth, and long-term relationships matter.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
District Managing Director
Northwestern Mutual
Middleton, WI
06.2025 - Current
- Directed strategic growth initiatives in recruiting and advisor development for Fortune 500 financial services firm.
- Analyzed and reported on profit and loss statements to maintain fiscal responsibility within office budget.
- Implemented and monitored performance standards and accountability systems to enhance production outcomes in a commission-driven environment.
- Spearheaded scalable business development initiatives by enhancing talent acquisition and fostering leadership development.
- Implemented effective time management strategies to enhance personal production levels.
Financial Advisor
Northwestern Mutual
Middleton, WI
08.2018 - Current
- Generated a $95k annual recurring revenue book of business from ground zero through strategic outreach and engagement.
- Peak annual production resulting in $191k of insurance premium credits and $4.1m in new assets under management.
- Secured 240+ clients through proactive prospecting and consultative sales strategies.
- Attained Pacesetter 40 recognition within first year, ranking in top 15% company-wide.
- Attained bronze, silver, and gold national production rankings.
- Maintained production while advancing into leadership roles
Chief Development Officer
Northwestern Mutual
Middleton, WI
05.2024 - 06.2025
- Roughly doubled first-year advisor retention- from around 10% to high teens.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs for financial advisors, contributing to:
- 7 Pacesetter 40 qualifiers (Top 15% of first year advisors nationally).
- 6 MDRT Qualifiers.
- Optimized development team performance through ongoing coaching, professional development, and goal setting.
Director of Development
Northwestern Mutual
Middleton, WI
10.2022 - 05.2024
- Implemented structured mentorship programs for early-career advisors, resulting in accelerated ramp-up speed and improved production results.
- Facilitated leadership development by establishing comprehensive coaching frameworks and growth opportunities for emerging leaders.
- Facilitated training sessions focused on skill enhancement and professional advancement for team members.
Supervisor, Home Theater Department
Best Buy
Madison, WI
06.2017 - 08.2018
- Supervised daily operations to ensure efficient workflow and adherence to company policies.
- Trained and mentored team members on product knowledge and customer service best practices.
- Implemented inventory management techniques to optimize stock levels and reduce shrinkage.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and inform strategic decisions for merchandising displays.
Samsung Experience Expert
Best Buy Inc
Madison, WI
07.2015 - 06.2017
- Achieved top ranking in territory for Samsung home theater sales, earning prestigious Top Gun Award.
- Executed high-ticket home theater sales through consultative selling techniques and live product demonstrations.
- Analyzed customer needs and effectively bundled Samsung ecosystem solutions to drive increased average sale size.
Education
Chartered Leadership Fellow -
American College of Financial Services
12-2024
Skills
- Business Development
- Consultative Sales
- Relationship Management
- Pipeline Generation
- Sales Leadership
- CRM Optimization
Accomplishments
- Top 25 Bronze, Top 25 Silver, Top 20 Gold National Rankings.
- Pacesetter 40 Qualifier
- Gateway to Growth Qualifier
- Fastrack Academy Qualifier
- Top Gun Award Winner
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
District Managing Director
Northwestern Mutual
06.2025 - Current
Chief Development Officer
Northwestern Mutual
05.2024 - 06.2025
Director of Development
Northwestern Mutual
10.2022 - 05.2024
Financial Advisor
Northwestern Mutual
08.2018 - Current
Supervisor, Home Theater Department
Best Buy
06.2017 - 08.2018
Samsung Experience Expert
Best Buy Inc
07.2015 - 06.2017
Chartered Leadership Fellow -
American College of Financial Services