Dive Brief:
- Northwestern Mutual appointed Dave Gordon as its chief digital and information officer, the financial services company said Thursday. Gordon will join the company’s leadership team, reporting to president and incoming CEO Tim Gerend.
- The executive joined Northwestern in 2023, most recently serving as its VP and CTO. Prior, he held several technology leadership roles at USAA, BMO Harris Bank and Capital One.
- Gordon replaces Christian Mitchell, who was appointed in June to succeed then-CIO Jeff Sippel and recently stepped down. Mitchell, a two-decade Northwestern veteran, had previously served as the company’s chief customer and digital officer.
Dive Insight:
The technology leadership change caps a year of C-suite shifts for Northwestern Mutual. Longtime CEO John Schlifske announced in January he would retire at the end of the year. Gerend will ascend to the CEO role Jan. 1.
In September, the company announced two additional C-suite changes: the retirement of its HR and investment chiefs and internal promotions to fill the roles, which will take effect Jan. 1.
In his new role as chief digital and information officer, Gordon will oversee technology and digital strategy, including AI, software engineering, data engineering, enterprise architecture, technology infrastructure, information risk and cybersecurity.
Gordon will also lead the company’s digital products and foundational tech capabilities, the company said.
“Dave’s deep technology experience, collaborative style and track record of success make him well-positioned to lead Northwestern Mutual’s overarching tech and digital strategy,” Gerend said. “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.”
A privately held company, Northwestern Mutual reported $36 billion in revenue in 2023, up nearly 3% year over year.
