Xochitl Gonzalez

Xochitl joined Northwestern Mutual (NM) in 2017 as a Technical Program Manager, and her career has since flourished with key roles in Tech Strategy & Transformation, program management, and organizational change management. Currently is a Sr Director, Business Ops, Strategy & Planning, and Chief of Staff for Corporate Solutions, bringing her expertise to provide strategic guidance aligned with NM’s priorities, driving efficiency and decision-making. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident through her involvement as a previous board member of NM’s Hispanic ERG and as past President/Chair of the Hispanic Employee Resource Group (H-ERG) at Johnson Controls, where she gained extensive global experience during her 12-year tenure.

Xochitl’s academic journey includes a Green Belt Six Sigma certification, a fellow graduate of the Hispanic IT Executive Council (HITEC) Emerging Executive Program, she honed her skills as an emerging leader. A Business Management & Entrepreneurship Technical degree from MATC and undergrad in leadership & Organization Development from Marquette University, where she was recognized for her leadership qualities and commitment to community engagement. Furthering her aspirations, she holds a master’s in organizational leadership & administration from Concordia University Wisconsin and is currently pursuing a Doctorate (PhD) in Global Leadership & Change at Tiffin University, Ohio, with an expected completion in Spring 2024, showcasing her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning.

As a devoted mother of three, Xochitl understands the importance of supporting emerging young leaders and underrepresented individuals in the business world. She takes great pride in actively mentoring aspiring professionals, encouraging them to embrace their unique identities and leverage their strengths to bring about positive change. Xochitl actively contributes to leadership and non-profit organizations in the Greater Milwaukee Area, including HPGM, as she passionately believes in making a difference within her community. She has a deep passion for exploring new places, grooving to a catchy beat, an avid “coffeeholic”, and loves indulging in exciting culinary adventures, while creating memories with her loved ones.