Northwestern Mutual appointed Dave Gordon as executive vice president and chief digital and information officer.
Gordon succeeds Christian Mitchell, who recently resigned from the role to pursue new opportunities.
Since joining the company in 2023, Gordon has served as vice president and chief technology officer, where he supports the software development of the company’s customer experience, digitally enabled products and corporate solutions.
He will report to Tim Gerend, who will step into the role of president and chief executive on Jan. 1.
Prior to joining the company, Gordon was chief technology and data officer of USAA Federal Savings Bank. He also served as US chief technology and operations officer at BMO Harris Bank, and as credit card divisional CIO and head of IT operations with Capital One.
Gerend said Gordon is well-positioned to lead the company’s tech and digital strategy.
“His leadership across a strong team of technology disciplines will ensure that we continue to enhance the relevance and improve the experience of working with Northwestern Mutual,” he said.
Gerend will assume the CEO and president roles from John Schlifske, who will retire at the end of the year, in accordance with the company’s mandatory retirement age policy. Schlifske, who has been with the company for 37 years, will remain chairman of the board through January, and then Gerend will also assume the role.
Prior to the promotion, Gerend served as the company’s executive vice president and chief distribution officer.
Aside from Gerend’s appointment, Northwestern Mutual also previously announced the promotion of Jeb Bentley as executive vice president and chief investment officer, while Kelly Culler has been named chief human resources officer. Both appointments will take effect on Jan. 1.
Bentley, who currently serves as vice president of wealth and investment management, succeeds Jeff Lueken, who is retiring. Culler is currently vice president of talent and senior HR and will succeed Don Robertson in the position.
