NML announces promotions
Changes stem from president’s retirement
Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co. Friday announced executive promotions and new roles it says are intended to advance its transformation as a financial advisory company with strong digital capabilities as well as a life insurer.
The Milwaukee-based insurer said the employees will become part of the company’s expanded senior leadership team and be responsible for overseeing strategy, execution and operations. The changes begin taking effect July 1.
“We are committed to leading our industry by transforming the way clients experience financial security, and these leaders are critical in driving our strategy,” John Schlifske, chairman and chief executive officer, said in a statement. “This move brings together both deep experience in delivering on our business fundamentals and accelerating innovation and growth.”
Under Schlifske, Northwestern Mutual has been increasing the company’s role as a financial advisory firm and not just as a life insurer. Schlifske also has been a proponent of more technology and innovation at the company.
“Our transformation is around deepening our financial planning capabilities and providing what clients want and need,” said spokeswoman Betsy Hoylman.
Hoylman said the moves stem from a rebalancing responsibilities due to Greg Oberland’s retirement coming at the end of the summer. Oberland is retiring after 36 years with the company. Oberland is executive vice president and company president.
The changes announced Friday:
❚ Tim Gerend, senior vice presidentcareer distribution, will lead distribution performance and development, field strategy and integration, planning and sales, and field rewards.
❚ Aditi Gokhale has been promoted to senior vice president in addition to being chief marketing officer.
❚ Christian Mitchell has been promoted to senior vice president-investment products and services in addition to serving as chief executive officer of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company.
❚ Beth Rodenhuis, senior vice president, has also been named chief transformation officer, continuing to oversee corporate strategy and the company’s transformation office.
❚ Emilia Sherifova has been promoted to senior vice president and chief technology officer.
❚ Alexa von Tobel has been promoted to senior vice president and chief innovation officer for Northwestern Mutual in addition to serving as chief executive officer of LearnVest.