Property Risk Consultant

Northwestern Mutual is a premier financial services company renowned for its commitment to helping clients achieve financial security and success through comprehensive insurance and investment solutions. Founded in the 19th century, the company has evolved into a trusted institution with a strong focus on integrity, client-centric service, and long-term stability. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Northwestern Mutual offers a broad range of financial products and services, including life insurance, disability insurance, annuities, investment management, and retirement planning. With a rich heritage and a forward-thinking approach, the organization fosters a culture of innovation and excellence, empowering employees to grow professionally while delivering superior service to clients.

This role is situated within the Real Estate Investment Department and specifically focuses on ensuring adherence to architectural, construction, and environmental risk policies related to real estate investments. The position involves evaluating real estate assets, primarily within the mortgage loan portfolio and select equity investments, to confirm compliance with established standards. The successful candidate will manage due diligence processes across multiple metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs), including Property Condition Assessments, Environmental Site Assessments, and Seismic Risk Analyses. This involves collaborating closely with business teams to manage and advise on acceptable risk levels, monitoring construction progress and quality, and overseeing modifications on construction projects. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for managing third-party consulting firms engaged for specialized evaluations, ensuring cost-effective and timely services.

An important aspect of the role includes understanding and managing the Construction Draw system, including budget reconciliation, draw requests, and participation in construction draw meetings. The incumbent will also play a critical role in evaluating policies and procedures, advising leadership on potential deviations, and providing economic evaluations regarding capital expenditures and environmental risks. The role demands rigorous review and approval of documentation such as drawings, specifications, surveys, soils reports, and consultant reports, all critical elements in closing new investments on schedule.

The position requires national scope management of consultants, effective negotiation skills with external parties including consultants and legal counsel, and representation of Northwestern Mutual professionally and ethically. Ensuring timely support to the Closing Unit through daily database entries and facilitating proper disbursement of construction loans and equity funds is also vital. Participation in deal review processes for all new investments underscores the collaborative and strategic nature of this role.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, environmental science, or construction management, complemented by at least seven years of relevant experience in real estate related to institutional investors or lending. Candidates with extensive specialized experience may also be considered, even if their educational background differs. Comprehensive knowledge of various building types—ranging from high rises and mid rises to industrial spaces and garden apartments—is essential. Strong communication skills and the ability to uphold established protocols firmly yet diplomatically are required. The role also demands cross-training in various disciplines and a willingness to engage in ongoing internal and external training.

The position is hybrid, based at Northwestern Mutual’s Home Office Campus in Milwaukee, WI, with some short-term national travel both scheduled and unscheduled, requiring flexibility in personal life arrangements. Northwestern Mutual values fairness and transparency in compensation, which is determined by factors such as the candidate's experience, market conditions, and other hiring process insights. The company is committed to equal opportunity employment and fostering an innovative, inclusive work environment where creativity, leadership, and business excellence thrive. Candidates excited by the prospect of contributing to a best-in-class organization focused on client interests are encouraged to apply and grow their careers with Northwestern Mutual.