Through hard work, networking and supportive managers Marek Kowal has achieved significant career progression. Having always wanted to join Northern Trust, after college, he joined us upon graduation, and has worked his way through a number of roles, building key skills along the way. He is a proud part of the Wealth Management team in Chicago.

Describe your role at Northern Trust

Put simply, I manage the investment portfolios of our Wealth Management clients.

Describe your team

My team is a group of investment associates and portfolio advisors based in Chicago.

Take us through how you ended up at Northern Trust?

I always wanted to join Northern Trust ever since I visited the bank in college. I applied to an entry level role working in the Transfer Agency, hoping to get my foot in the door at Wealth Management (WM). I began networking immediately and began a role in WM a year and a half later.

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

The progression of my career through hard work and building strong connections with others.

What’s a typical “day-in-the-life” at Northern Trust look like for you?

A typical day in the life involves listening to the morning brief, reading the Wall Street Journal, reading internal and external research, and managing client investments.

When did you realize that Northern Trust was a good fit for your career?

The best thing about Northern is the people. Without the people I’ve met here, my career progression would have been a lot slower.

How do you keep your skills fresh?

Keeping skills fresh requires tons of reading and staying on top of the news. You never know what question a client might ask you.

How has Northern Trust supported your career objectives / development?

My managers have always been supportive of my growth. If there weren’t opportunities on my team, they’ve always been supportive of me moving to other teams within the bank.

What part of Northern Trust’s culture differentiates it from other companies?

Within investments, the vast amount of resources available to us allows us to lead effectively and make informed decisions on behalf of our clients

How do you create a balance between work and home?

Northern Trust offers a great work/life balance. I feel they understand the importance of having a life outside of work. I enjoy spending time with my family, running, traveling, and playing golf.

What would you say to someone considering a career at Northern Trust?

Be a friendly person. The best way to succeed at Northern Trust is by working hard and being kind to others.

What advice would you give to Northern Trust partners beginning their career at Northern Trust?

Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for guidance. If people know who you are, your probability of success increases.

Fast Facts

Name - Marek Kowal

Role - Portfolio Advisor

Business Unit - Wealth Management

Geographic Location - Chicago

Education - B.S. Finance

Hometown – Raised in Summit, IL and now live in Lincoln Park, a neighborhood in Chicago

Do you have a pet(s)? – We have a family dog named Gresham. He’s the sweetest dog in the world

Where do you volunteer your time? – My wife and I like to volunteer our time at our local church, St. Clement.

What are you reading / podcast recommendation - Currently reading a book on company valuation from McKinsey & Co.

Favorite sports team – FC Barcelona

Comfort food - Chipotle

If you could have dinner with any person alive today, who would it be – Warren Buffett

Describe Northern Trust in one word - Family

Careers at Northern Trust

Come find your greater at Northern Trust. Review our open roles here.