2. Topics Overview History Structure and Culture Change Process Actions of Leadership Effectiveness of the Change Process Reflection on Innovation and Change
3. History Company was founded by John Johnston in 1857 First Office was located in Janesville, Wisconsin Provided life insurance services Paid first claims to clients right before the Civil War Known as the “Quiet Company” Total U.S. Network Offices: 350
4. Structure and Culture Structure All of the Network Offices are independent The Agents in each office manage their own client base, along with an assistant Each Network Office reports to the Home Office Culture Professional and Structured Company beliefs about their clients Importance of financial strength Policyowners Examing Committee (1907-Present)
6. Change Process Change occurred four months ago Assistants who work with the agents are now classified as staff members This gives the assistants the ability to assist any of the agents in the Network Offices The change allows the agents to focus on marketing the business and recruiting new clients
7. Actions of Leadership The managing partner met with the network directors on several occasions to discuss the changes Once the plans were finalized, the leadership team met with the agents and their assistants After the changes were finalized, an announcement was made via e-mail by the managing partner
8. Effectiveness of the Change Process Each of the agents have seen significant improvements in the business and client base Agents are able to place more focus on marketing, recruiting new clients, and retaining their existing clients The assistants have gained knowledge and experience from the other agents
9. Conclusion How does Northwestern Mutual respond to innovation and change? By recognizing the ever-changing needs of the clients By knowing the current competition Understanding the external and internal forces impacting the organization By quickly and efficiently making necessary changes Website: www.NorthwesternMutual.com
