Custom SMA Client Service Specialist

Northern Trust•Chicago, IL

5d•$88,900 - $151,100

About The Position

The Custom SMA Client Service Specialist reports to the Custom SMA Client Service Manager and collaborates with Product Strategists, Sales, Operations, and other internal teams to provide excellent service to intermediary clients. Working alongside the manager, the Specialist helps maintain high client satisfaction and a seamless client experience. The role supports assigned accounts, client onboarding, service requests, account information inquiries, client meetings, prospect-related work, and RFP responses. It also contributes to consistent team processes, cross-training, and project support. Northern Trust is a global financial services company providing wealth management, asset servicing, asset management, and banking services. Its Asset Management business states that it has $1.6 trillion in assets under management as of Q2 2026. The position requires U.S. work authorization without employment-based visa sponsorship.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience with an investment manager or wealth management firm providing client service to financial advisors.
Maintain effective relationships with internal and external clients.
Strong written, oral, and listening communication skills.
Proficiency with MS Office and ability to learn other software quickly.
Resourcefulness, problem-solving ability, and strong organizational skills.
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Ability to multitask and manage time effectively.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of custom SMAs and financial intermediaries such as RIAs and wealth management firms.
Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Support assigned client accounts and manage client activities.
Monitor client onboarding progress and ensure documentation is accurately completed and properly archived.
Support users of NTAM’s DI Client Advisor Portal.
Ensure timely resolution of client issues and service requests.
Coordinate client requests with internal teams and use available resources to provide information, documentation, and transition analysis.
Use internal systems to respond to requests concerning asset values, status updates, tax efficiency, and account performance.
Escalate complex issues to appropriate teams and leadership when necessary.
Participate in client conference calls and meetings, and attend client onboarding events upon request.
Collaborate on team initiatives and assist internal teams with ad hoc projects.
Participate in pre-work for large prospects and help drive solutions in a Client Service capacity.
Assist with RFP responses related to Client Service and the relevant client segment.
Use guides to reduce risk during team absences and cross-train with peers to provide coverage.
Follow established best practices and guidelines to create consistent processes for handling typical client inquiries.

Benefits

Retirement benefits, including a 401(k) and pension.
Health and welfare benefits, including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, and disability coverage.
Paid time off.
Parental and caregiver leave.
Life and accident insurance.
Other voluntary and well-being benefits.
Discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component.
Flexible and collaborative work culture.
Movement within the organization is encouraged, and senior leaders are accessible.
Inclusive workplace and community-assistance commitment.