Nikki Macdonald runs a national financial advisory team partnering with clients seeking sophisticated, data-driven fiduciary strategies to build and preserve wealth, especially for women-led households, busy families and closely-held businesses.
Q: Why do you do what you do? What motivates and inspires you?
A: My motivation comes from my “why”: the reason I chose this career and ultimately started my own firm. I built my business—in a new industry, during a pandemic, with two small kids—to make a real, positive impact on my family, friends and community. I’m proud to build something bigger than myself, serving markets that are important to me and underserved in our industry. I show other women, fellow business owners and even my own kids what is possible. I focus relentlessly on my clients’ goals and on creating plans to achieve them. They entrust me with their hopes, dreams and fears, and I get a front-row seat to the highs and lows; something I’ll never take for granted.
Q: What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? What advice would you offer them?
A: Maintaining meaningful human connection in an increasingly digital world. Technology and AI can improve efficiency, but they can’t replace relationships, mentorship and community. I believe the best advisors distinguish themselves through trust, empathy, the ability to simplify complex concepts and ultimately drive people to take action. My advice: be intentional about building your network. Some of my most rewarding opportunities have come through local nonprofit boards, community involvement, professional organizations and the remarkable people I’ve met along the way. Get coffee with someone who inspires you, and maybe even intimidates you. Take risks and be curious. Find your village; the relationships you build will become some of your greatest assets!
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability Insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries, including Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance), Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (investment brokerage services), a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, and member of FINRA and SIPC, and Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company® (NMWMC) (investment advisory and trust services), a federal savings bank. NM and its subsidiaries are in Milwaukee, WI. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S.