Former Northwestern Mutual CEO joins Marquette Business as executive-in-residence

Marquette University's College of Business Administration has named John Schlifske, former chairman, president and chief executive officer of Northwestern Mutual, as an executive-in-residence. In this role, Schlifske will bring nearly four decades of industry-leading experience to the classroom and mentor the next generation of business leaders.

"We are very excited to welcome John to Marquette Business," said Keyes Dean of Business Administration Andrew DeGuire. "His deep experience, impactful leadership and unwavering commitment to ethical business practices will offer our students invaluable, real-world insight as they prepare to lead in their own careers. Having had the privilege of working closely with John in the past, I'm excited to partner again to serve Marquette, the Milwaukee community and beyond."

Schlifske spent 37 years at Northwestern Mutual, including almost 15 years as chairman, president and CEO. Since his retirement on January 31, 2025, he has remained active in the business community through board service with Kohl's Corporation and Journey 21, an organization for adults with intellectual disabilities. He previously served on the board of Froedtert Health, Children's Hospital, the Greater Milwaukee Committee and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

As an executive-in-residence, Schlifske will share insights from his professional journey on topics including leadership, performance management, career development and organizational culture. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Carleton College and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

The executive-in-residence program strengthens the college's ties to industry by connecting students with accomplished business leaders. DeGuire added, "John's appointment underscores our commitment to lifelong learning and our role as a convener of businesses around the most important issues shaping our economy and community."