Custom SMA Client Service Specialist

Northern Trust; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 89,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Trust Asset Management is seeking a Custom SMA Client Service Specialist to provide exceptional service to intermediary clients. You will collaborate with Product Strategists, Sales, Operations and other teams to ensure smooth onboarding and ongoing client satisfaction.

This role requires strong communication, speed in resolving requests, and ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic wealth management environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years of client service at an investment manager or wealth firm.
• Knowledge of custom SMAs and financial intermediaries is a plus.
• Maintain effective relationships with internal and external clients.
• Outstanding communication abilities in written, oral, and listening skills.

Responsibilities

• Support assigned client accounts and activities.
• Monitor onboarding progress and archive documents.
• Assist users on NTAM’s DI Client Advisor Portal.
• Ensure timely resolution of client issues and service requests.
• Coordinate with internal teams and leverage resources for information and transition analysis.
• Use internal systems to handle client requests such as 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 as necessary; attend client onboarding events upon request.
• Collaborate on team initiatives and provide assistance to other internal teams for ad hoc projects.
• Participate in pre-work for large prospects requiring Client Service in driving solutions.
• Assist in RFP responses as it pertains to Client Service.
• Follow guides to reduce risk during team absences and cross-train with peers for coverage.

Skills

Client service

Communication skills

Multitasking

MS Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

DI Client Advisor Portal

Job description

About Northern Trust

As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking services, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world’s most successful individuals, families, corporations and institutions.

About Northern Trust

As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking services, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world’s most successful individuals, families, corporations and institutions.

Since 1889, we have aligned our efforts with our three guiding Principles That Endure: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. Together, they reflect the three cornerstones of business conduct which we strive to instill in our employees, whom we call partners, and to provide to our clients and the communities we serve worldwide.

With more than 135 years of financial experience and over 24,000 partners, we serve the world’s most sophisticated clients using leading technology and exceptional service.

Position Summary

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 Custom SMA Client Service Manager, the Specialist ensures high client satisfaction and a seamless experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Support assigned client accounts and manage client activities.
• Monitor the progress of client onboarding activities, ensuring all documentation is accurately completed and properly archived.
• Support users on NTAM’s DI Client Advisor Portal.
• Ensure timely resolution of client issues and service requests.
• Address client requests by coordinating with internal teams and leveraging resources for information, documentation, and transition analysis.
• Use internal systems to handle client requests such as 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 as necessary; attend client onboarding events upon request.
• Collaborate on team initiatives and provide assistance to other internal teams as necessary for ad hoc projects.
• Participate in pre-work that takes place for large prospects & requires Client Service role in driving solutions.
• Assist in RFP responses as it pertains to Client Service and client in their specific segment.
• Use guides to reduce risk during team absences and cross-train with peers for coverage
• Follow established best practices and guidelines to create consistent processes for handling typical client inquiries.

Key Qualifications And Experience

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience with an investment manager or wealth management firm providing client service to financial advisors.
• Knowledge of custom SMAs and financial intermediaries, such as RIAs and wealth management firms, is a plus.
• Maintain effective relationships with internal and external clients.
• Outstanding communication abilities are required, both within the organization and externally, encompassing written, oral, and listening skills.
• Skilled in MS Office; able to quickly learn other software.
• Success requires resourcefulness, problem solving, and strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment
• Skilled at multitasking.
• Excellent at managing time and staying organized.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Northern Trust Asset Management (NTAM) is an investment first entrusted by investors around the globe to help them navigate changing market environments, so they can confidently realize their long-term objectives. With $1.6T (as of Q2 2026) in Assets Under Management, we have earned the confidence of investors worldwide by offering distinctive solutions, diverse insights and an exceptional client experience.

To learn more about us, please visit: Northern Trust Asset Management

Salary Range

$88,900 - 151,100 USD

Salary range is a good faith estimate of base pay. Northern Trust provides a comprehensive benefits package including retirement benefits (401k and pension), health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts and disability), paid time off, parental and caregiver leave, life & accident insurance, and other voluntary and well-being benefits. Northern Trust also provides a discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. Northern Trust will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa).

Working with Us

As a Northern Trust partner, you will be part of a flexible and collaborative work culture, which has a strong history of financial strength and stability. Movement within the organization is encouraged, senior leaders are accessible, and you can take pride in working for a company committed to an inclusive workplace and assisting the communities we serve.

Philanthropy is deeply rooted in Northern Trust’s history and is an essential element of our culture. Employees around the world give their time and talent to work for the greater good of their communities.

Reasonable Accommodation

Northern Trust is committed to working with and providing adjustments to individuals with health conditions and disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email our HR Service Center at [e-mail], or alternatively you can discuss your individual requirements with the recruiter you are working with.