KMO – Northwestern Mutual

At KMO – Northwestern Mutual, we believe in building better lives by guiding leaders and families to embrace the present while shaping a more confident future. Our culture is rooted in meaningful relationships, purpose-driven work, and a strong commitment to the communities we serve. We take pride in giving back through hands-on involvement and supporting causes that matter, including upcoming events and initiatives benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Together, we create impact not only through financial guidance, but through the way we show up for our clients, our team, and our community.

Our thriving offices are located at:

• 5251 W. 116th Place Suite 300 Leawood, KS 66211
• 2345 Grand Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108
• 8621 E 21st Street Suite 150 Wichita, KS 67206

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

A Glance at Northwestern Mutual (NM): Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500® company that provides a wide range of financial services to more than 5 million people. As a mutual company, we answer to our policyowners—not Wall Street. We began in Wisconsin in 1857, and today we’re one of America’s top companies - as was recognized by FORTUNE ® as one of the “World’s Most Admired” life insurance companies in 2024 - with a unique culture deeply dedicated to helping people achieve financial security.  

Meet Our Local Team:

Lesle Griessel, CLU®, ChFC®, Managing Partner:

• Time with NM: Since 2002
• Previous experience: Started as a college intern and advanced through multiple leadership roles, including Associate Managing Partner (appointed in 2019 as one of the first in the company and first female), and appointed Managing Partner in September 2025.
• Passionate about: Spending time with her husband and two daughters, marathon training, yoga, cheering on her daughters in sports, and enjoying the outdoors with her family.

Joey Scott, RICP®, Financial Advisor & District Director:

• Time with NM: Since 2016
• Previous experience: Began as a college intern while attending Northwest Missouri State University and transitioned into a full-time financial advisor in 2018, building his career in Northwestern Mutual’s Kansas City office and advancing into leadership through growth and development roles.
• Passionate about: Growing his practice alongside his team, building long-term client relationships, spending time with friends and family, staying active through sports and exercise, cheering on Kansas City teams, and relaxing near the water.

Anthony Gurera, Financial Advisor & Growth and Development Director:

• Time with NM: Since 2018
• Previous experience: Began as a Northwestern Mutual intern and transitioned into a full-time advisor upon graduating from Rockhurst University with a double major in Finance and Economics. Founder and leader of Priority Wealth Partners, with responsibility for client strategy, team operations, and practice management, while also supporting advisor recruiting and development across Northwestern Mutual Kansas and West Missouri.
• Passionate about: Developing future leaders, building strong client relationships, serving the Kansas City community, mentoring emerging advisors, and creating long-term impact through thoughtful, holistic financial planning.

Cannon Kern, Financial Advisor:

• Time with NM: 2 years
• Previous experience: Engineer and project manager prior to joining Northwestern Mutual.
• Passionate about: Spending time with family and enjoying life with his new baby girl.

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: Bachelor's Degree is strongly preferred or military equivalent.
• 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. Lesle Griessel is a Managing Partner for NM and is not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.