Northwestern Mutual on Thursday announced a new chief distribution officer and the retirement of its former chief financial officer.
The moves come after the Milwaukee-based financial services company
announced in January that
Tim Gerend will take over for
John Schlifske as chief executive officer at the end of the year. Gerend had been serving as chief distribution officer prior to the announcement but has now moved into the role of president.
John Roberts, previously vice president of field talent and performance, will take over as chief distribution officer. He will have oversight of the company’s field force of financial officers. Roberts will report to Gerend and will join NML’s senior leadership team.
"Anyone who has worked with (Roberts) can attest to his talent, leadership and deep knowledge of our business," said Schlifske. "The impact he has made as a leader for our field to attract and retain top talent while driving measures of success has brought significant positive change in all facets of the field, particularly the growth trajectory and health of our offices across the country."
Roberts joined Northwestern Mutual as an analyst for Northwestern Mutual Capital in 2006. He has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Indiana University and an MBA from Northwestern University. He also currently serves on the community board for the Milwaukee Public Museum.
Northwestern Mutual also announced that
Mike Carter, currently executive vice president and chief of staff retired as of Jan. 31. Carter
took on the chief of staff role in January 2023. He was previously the company’s chief financial officer for nearly 15 years, the longest anyone has held that role.
"We sincerely thank Mike for his leadership and many contributions to the company over the past 30 years, and wish him the very best in retirement," Schlifske said.
