Apply to Salinas Financial Group

At Salinas Financial Group, we are committed to developing the next generation of financial professionals through a culture rooted in growth, mentorship, and purpose-driven work. Led by a clear vision of empowering individuals to build meaningful and impactful careers, our Manhattan Beach office has earned the distinction of ranking #1 nationally for new advisor growth and development. We foster a collaborative, high-energy environment where individuals transitioning into a financial representative role are supported every step of the way. Beyond the office, our team is deeply invested in giving back, proudly supporting organizations such as Alex’s Lemonade Stand and Beads of Courage, reflecting our belief in making a difference both in our clients’ lives and in the communities we serve.

Our office is located at: 1230 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 100 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 

Follow this link to hear about a Day in the Life of a Northwestern Mutual Advisor: https://youtu.be/tar1BSa7Gaw

Meet Our Team:

Andrew Atakpo, CFP®, Growth & Development Director (GDD):

• Time with NM: 6 years.
• Prior Experience: Background in outside territory and account management within the automotive industry, supporting franchise car dealerships with software and operational solutions. Although not directly in finance, he developed a strong interest in financial planning, ultimately leading him to transition into the industry.
• Passionate About: A dedicated sports enthusiast who enjoys basketball, football, soccer, and increasingly baseball. He and his wife love traveling, exploring new restaurants, and seeking out new experiences. He also enjoys spending time at the beach, staying active by playing sports, and has a strong passion for cars, including learning about and driving them.

Cody Lee, Growth & Development Director (GDD), Financial Advisor:

• Time with NM: 4 years.
• Prior Experience: Extensive background in oil and gas as a Landman, structuring drilling deals across the western United States and offshore Africa. Experience includes working with Reg D offerings, running a small public company, and transacting on over one million acres for development. Also served on the Board of Directors for the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL), representing over 30,000 members.
• Passionate About: A proud father of three, including an Air Force aviator, an engineering student, and a high school junior. A certified USATF Level I coach for youth cross country and track. Enjoys reading fantasy, science fiction, and history, and is always open to sharing recommendations. Values time with his partner Bridget, cooking, traveling, and playing beach volleyball. Also enjoys working on cars in his free time.

Ulises Leach - Associate Director of Career Development:

• Time with NM: Joined in November 2022 as a recruiter in Santa Monica.
• Prior Experience: Served 4 years in the U.S. Navy and graduated from UCLA in 2020. Focused on helping veterans transition to civilian careers.
• Passionate About: Ulises enjoys helping people pivot their careers to Northwestern Mutual. Outside of work, he loves spending time with his fiancé, two dogs, and attending LA sporting events.

Heather Quinn, CFP®, ChFC®, Surgical Field Director:

• Time with NM: 8 years.
• Prior Experience: Former TV and film producer who led the television division at Overbrook Entertainment, founded by Will Smith, bringing high-level production and leadership experience into her financial services career.
• Passionate About: Spending time with family at the beach and traveling to new destinations. Enjoys practicing yoga and pilates, and supporting her children at club soccer and water polo tournaments.

Alexander Wood, Financial Advisor:

• Time with NM: 1 year and 2 months.
• Prior Experience: Background in live event and television executive operations, management, and consulting, with a focus on large-scale production and organizational leadership.
• Passionate About: A dedicated father of two and caretaker of several rescued pitbulls. Enjoys golfing, playing poker, and participating in social events that foster connection and community. Spends weekends gardening and hosting gatherings, and has a strong interest in geopolitics and current events. A devoted supporter of multiple professional sports teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Consultation: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals, aspirations, and concerns.
• Financial Planning: Develop comprehensive financial plans that include investments, insurance, and retirement.
• Insurance Solutions: Recommend and implement insurance strategies to protect clients' assets and income.
• Ongoing Support: Monitor clients' financial plans and provide regular updates, adjusting strategies as needed to meet changing circumstances.
• Networking: Build and maintain a network of clients through referrals, community involvement, and professional associations.

Qualifications:

• Education: A bachelor's degree is preferred.
• Experience: Previous experience in financial services, insurance or business development is beneficial but not required.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to build trust and rapport with clients.
• Licenses: Obtain necessary licenses, such as Series 6, 63, and state insurance licenses (training and sponsorship available).

Benefits:

• Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including sponsorship for advanced certifications.
• Income Potential: Competitive compensation structure including performance incentives, with no ceiling. 
• Support and Mentorship: Comprehensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexibility to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.
• Impact: Make a lasting impact by guiding individuals and families in your community towards financial security and success. 

 

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Devin Salinas is a Managing Director of NM and not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.