At the Dorner District of Northwestern Mutual, our mission is simple yet powerful: to help people discover and achieve what’s possible in life. With 22 years of experience developing top-performing financial advisors, our district is proud to be home to three of just 230 Northwestern Mutual Wealth Advisors nationwide recognized by Forbes as Best-in-State, celebrating the vision, commitment, teamwork, and planning excellence that define our culture. Led by Dr. Jason Selk’s first Certified Mental Toughness Coach—also certified by the BrainFirst Institute in neuroscience-based coaching—we combine mindset and skill development to help advisors reach their full potential. We’re equally passionate about giving back, supporting organizations like Midwest Food Bank Bloomington, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, and more that strengthen our communities and support families in need.
Our thriving offices are located:
- 301 North Neil Street, Suite 501, Champaign, IL 61820
- 102 South East Street, Bloomington, IL 61701
- 410 Fayette, Peoria, IL 6160
Follow this link to hear more about our 2030 Vision: https://watch.wave.video/7NXgeJ1aGGbGqgUH
A Glance at Northwestern Mutual (NM):
Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500® company that provides a wide range of financial services to more than 5 million people. As a mutual company, we answer to our policyowners—not Wall Street. We began in Wisconsin in 1857, and today we’re one of America’s top companies - as was recognized by FORTUNE ® as one of the “World’s Most Admired” life insurance companies in 2024 - with a unique culture deeply dedicated to helping people achieve financial security.
Meet Some of Our Local Leaders, the Heartbeat of Our Business:
Kurt Dorner, Managing Director:
- Time with NM: 22 years
- Prior to: Spent 7 years in Big 8 Accounting and Benefit Consulting. Later became the first hire at a tech startup, where he was part of the leadership team that grew the company to 200 employees over 10 years.
- Passionate About: Enjoys adventures with his wife and family, especially the energy of the ocean, mountains, big cities, college sports, and live music. Dedicated to mental and physical fitness, aligned with his purpose: to teach, train, and inspire people to compete for what’s possible today and enjoy the moments along the way.
Jennifer Ronk, Director of Selection:
- Time with NM: 4 years
- Prior to: Built a career in the NBA and NFL, focusing on premium services and sales—courtside seating, club seats, and suites.
- Passionate About: A proud wife and mom to two young children. Passionate about faith, family, and holistic health. Committed to creating a life that’s grounded, grateful, and well-balanced.
Bradley Behrens, Co-Founder and Wealth Management Advisor, Behrens & Brown Wealth Management:
- Time with NM: 13 years
- Prior to: Began as an intern in college and has been with NM ever since. Before that, worked in landscaping and lawncare sales during college.
- Passionate About: Helping others reach and enjoy financial security. Outside of work, Brad enjoys time with his wife and three kids, is active in his local church, and loves spending time with his 10 nieces and nephews.
Nick Ryba, Financial Advisor:
- Time with NM: 4 years
- Prior to: Spent over 10 years in corporate account management and consulting roles—4 years in logistics and 6 years in the medical device industry. Developed skills in interpersonal communication, problem-solving, time management, and customer service that now help him connect with and support his clients.
- Passionate About: Very family-oriented and enjoys spending quality time with his wife and son. They love traveling, attending sporting events, discovering new restaurants and breweries, and maximizing time with friends and extended family.
About the Financial Representative Role:
As a Financial Representative at Northwestern Mutual, you will be part of a team that helps individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through personalized insurance solutions and financial planning. Your role involves building long-term relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored financial solutions.
Follow this link to hear why Financial Advisor, Jamie Mannarelli is so passionate about her career at Northwestern Mutual: https://youtu.be/7SlQuS7AOgQ
Key Responsibilities:
- Client Consultation: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals, aspirations, and concerns.
- Financial Planning: Develop comprehensive financial plans that include investments, insurance, and retirement.
- Insurance Solutions: Recommend and implement insurance strategies to protect clients' assets and income.
- Ongoing Support: Monitor clients' financial plans and provide regular updates, adjusting strategies as needed to meet changing circumstances.
- Networking: Build and maintain a network of clients through referrals, community involvement, and professional associations.
Qualifications:
- Education: A bachelor's degree is preferred.
- Experience: Previous experience in financial services, insurance or business development is beneficial but not required.
- Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to build trust and rapport with clients.
- Licenses: Obtain necessary licenses, such as Series 6, 63, and state insurance licenses (training and sponsorship available).
Benefits:
- Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including sponsorship for advanced certifications.
- Income Potential: Competitive compensation structure including performance incentives, with no ceiling.
- Support and Mentorship: Comprehensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexibility to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.
- Impact: Make a lasting impact by guiding individuals and families in your community towards financial security and success.
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Kurt Dorner is a General Agent of NM and not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.
