Juan Francisco Ortiz

Juan Francisco Ortiz joined Northern Trust in 2015 with a wide range of financial services experience. As a Senior Managing Director and Senior Vice President of our Private Client Services group in Wealth Management, Juan oversees a team of Trust and Investment professionals.

What unique traits do you bring to your role?

I've been in financial services for 21 years. I’ve been a banker, a lender, and have overseen various groups within the bank. I’ve been a part of a failed financial institution and on the acquiring side of an FDIC acquisition. I bring different perspectives and an open mind to change. These experiences gives me a unique edge. 

What are you most proud of in your career at Northern Trust so far?

Leading the Latin Heritage Resource Council (LHLC), an employee-led resource group, helping evolve it to where it is today, and handing the baton off to other great leaders. It’s expanded from being Chicago-centric to having board members across different U.S. states, and we also have expanded our connectivity to the LHLC group in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). 

I was also nominated and served as a co-chair for our Achieving Greater Together campaign. It gave me the opportunity to work with partners globally who I wouldn’t have met otherwise. 

What did you gain from the experience of leading a Business Resource Council (BRC)?

Not every organization has Business Resource Councils, and ours allow you to meet colleagues globally and share commonalities regardless of your role in the organization. 

I remain on the board for the Latin Heritage Leadership Council; it offers opportunities for community service and professional development outside of my day-to-day work.  Whether it was introductions to other key partners, taking on stretch assignments or simply taking the time to discuss career paths with others, this has been instrumental for me in my journey.

When do you feel most empowered at work?

I’ve always liked coaching, even as a younger manager early in my career. I love learning, empowering others, sharing ideas, and learning from others. I want partners to have an open-door policy to schedule one-on-ones and talk about how they’re progressing, how they can contribute, and how we can help.

What qualities make a good manager?

You have to be a good listener. Know that you’re going to only be as good and as successful as the people around you. Make sure that knowledge is shared, and that tools and ways of working smarter are available to employees.

What sets Northern Trust apart from other companies?

The openness of our colleagues starting with our senior executives on down wanting to connect with employees across all segments. At other institutions, if you're good at what you do in one segment no one wants you to leave. That’s a positive cultural change here. It’s probably why you see partners who have been here 25 or 30 years+, yet they’ve had various roles across different departments.

What advice would you give to people exploring a career at Northern Trust?

Be open-minded and proactive. Find opportunities to highlight your leadership skills. 

FAST FACTS

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois 
Current location: Oak Park, Illinois 
Time at Northern Trust: 9 years 
Favorite sports team: Chicago Cubs and the University of Illinois Fighting Illini 
Favorite food: Pork tamales—especially at Christmas
Hobby: Watching my two daughters play softball, field hockey, volleyball
Currently watching: My wife and I are currently watching “Your Honor” on Netflix 
Cause you are passionate about: Chicago 200/Common Purpose – they focus on professional development for youth ages 18-25. I also serve on the boards of the National Museum of Mexican Art and Allies for Community Business. 
Describe Northern Trust, your career, and your team in one word: Evolving