Talent Acquisition Specialist (Chicago)

Job Title: Talent Acquisition Specialist

Location: Northwestern Mutual – Hyde Park, Chicago, IL

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Managing Director

Position Overview:

At Northwestern Mutual – Hyde Park, we believe financial planning is a deeply personal calling. We are seeking a Community-Centered Recruiter whose mission is to identify, attract, and support individuals, both career changers and experienced financial advisors, who are ready to align their work with purpose and impact.

This role is rooted in community engagement, authentic relationships, and a passion for helping others explore a fulfilling career path as a financial advisor. The ideal candidate is an outgoing, connected, and mission-driven professional who thrives in social settings and understands the power of personal connection in building strong, purpose-aligned teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively identify and recruit two key groups:
• Career changers seeking a more purpose-driven profession.
• Experienced financial advisors looking to grow within a values-based, client-first firm.
• Build a consistent presence in the Hyde Park community by attending and leading events, networking with centers of influence, and establishing partnerships with local organizations, businesses, alumni groups, and affinity groups.
• Leverage a high-touch, relationship-first approach to sourcing candidates — prioritizing quality conversations, trust-building, and long-term connections over transactional recruiting.
• Conduct discovery meetings with potential candidates to understand their values, goals, and alignment with the advisor role at Northwestern Mutual.
• Guide career changers through the transition process by helping them evaluate the profession, understand licensing requirements, and visualize their potential path.
• Partner with internal leaders to align recruiting strategy with firm growth goals and culture.
• Host and facilitate career information sessions, panel discussions, and advisor spotlight events.
• Collaborate with marketing to craft community-specific messaging and digital outreach campaigns.
• Maintain accurate records in our applicant tracking system and report on progress toward recruiting goals.

Qualifications:

• 2+ years of experience in recruiting, business development, community engagement, or relationship management.
• Strong network and presence in the Chicago-Hyde Park area or willingness to embed within the local community.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills.
• Passion for helping others discover fulfilling career paths.
• Understanding of, or willingness to learn, the financial services industry and advisor career path.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.

What We Offer:

• A collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on growth, impact, and integrity.
• Competitive base compensation with performance-based incentives.
• Ongoing training and mentorship from senior leaders.
• Opportunities to lead meaningful community events and initiatives.
• The chance to make a lasting impact on individuals’ lives and the Hyde Park community.

Northwestern Mutual – Hyde Park is committed to reflecting the diversity of our community and empowering professionals from all backgrounds to thrive in financial services.