Manuel Eduardo Gutierrez

Fellowship associate, Principal Financial Network

Age: 33

Education: MBA, University of Iowa, Tippie College of Business (expected fall 2025); B.S., finance and management information systems, Iowa State University

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Tell us some of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I recently joined Principal Financial Network and am currently working toward becoming a financial adviser through its fellowship program.

I was formerly on Principal’s corporate strategy and development team, focusing on strategic initiatives in Latin America.

I am the founding president of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) Des Moines Chapter, fostering professional development and leadership opportunities for Latino professionals.

I serve as a board member for Junior Achievement of Central Iowa, empowering the young people through financial education and career readiness.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My biggest passion is faith, family, friends and building meaningful relationships. I strive to support and uplift those around me, guided by my beliefs and a commitment to helping others grow while continuing to make my family proud.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

To me, success means living with purpose and staying true to my values. Personally, it's about strengthening my faith, prioritizing family and living in a way that honors those who matter most to me. Professionally, it's about making a positive impact, helping others grow, contributing to something greater than myself and leading with integrity.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

The importance of financial literacy and mentorship, especially for minorities, including small-business owners and entrepreneurs who often face systemic barriers to opportunities. Access to financial education and strong mentors can be life-changing, helping individuals build a secure future and break cycles of inequality. Creating pathways for underrepresented communities to gain the knowledge and guidance they need is essential to driving lasting change.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

As the son of Mexican immigrants, I saw my parents sacrifice to create a better future for my sister and me. Their resilience and dedication shaped my perspective on life and success. Seeing how limited financial education affected their retirement planning reinforced the importance of financial literacy in building long-term security.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I aspire to continue growing both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact on those around me. I want to help create opportunities for Latino men and women in Iowa through organizations like ALPFA. Most importantly, I strive to lead a life that reflects my values — one rooted in faith, family and service to others.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

Be intentional about building relationships and seeking mentorship. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and never be afraid to ask for guidance. Opportunities often come from the connections you make, so invest in your network and always look for ways to learn and grow.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

One habit that has contributed to my success is fostering a positive and emotionally intelligent mindset. By staying self-aware, empathetic and optimistic, I’m able to navigate challenges.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

I would like to see increased access to financial education and mentorship programs to empower individuals to build long-term financial security and pursue entrepreneurship.

What's one fun fact about you?

I won Chick-fil-A for a year after making a field goal at an Iowa State football game.

Hobbies:

Traveling; playing sports (golf and soccer); cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones.

What is one word that best describes you?

Chameleon.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

Bandit Burrito.

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

I was at the 16th hole at the Waste Management Open in Phoenix this year and missed a hole-in-one because I stepped away to use the restroom — timing is everything!

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

I really enjoy the Principal Charity Classic.