Chris Kulick

Investment leader with 25+ years of experience across institutional asset management, alternatives, and wealth platforms. Expertise in portfolio construction, multi-asset allocation, and risk management, with deep experience across hedge fund strategies and operational due diligence. Proven track record of scaling investment platforms, improving implementation efficiency, and contributing to $1–2B in AUM growth. Global experience across the U.S., Europe, Middle East, and Asia.

Director of Investments at NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL (2024-01 – 2026-12)

• Directed investment strategy and portfolio construction for a $300M+ advisory platform, delivering consistent asset allocation across varying client risk profiles
• Built and implemented multi-asset portfolios incorporating traditional, liquid alternatives, and private investments to enhance diversification and return potential
• Leveraged BlackRock Aladdin to analyze portfolio exposures, factor risks, and performance attribution, improving precision of top-down positioning
• Executed trading, rebalancing, and tax-loss harvesting strategies, improving portfolio efficiency and aftertax outcomes
• Designed and implemented model portfolios for liquid and illiquid alternatives using a defined risk budget framework

Financial Advisor at MERRILL LYNCH (BANK OF AMERICA) (2019-01 – 2024-12)

• Delivered holistic wealth management and investment advisory solutions for high-net-worth individuals and small businesses
• Developed goal-based financial plans integrating retirement, education, and liquidity needs with appropriate risk alignment
• Grew client base through systematic business development efforts and referral networks
• Allocated client portfolios using a multi-asset framework aligned with firm investment models and client objectives

Chief Strategist / Acting CEO at ANALYTICAL RESEARCH (2018-01 – 2019-12)

• Led investment strategy, client engagement, and operations for a global consultancy overseeing ~$650M in AUM for European pension clients
• Managed a team of 15 professionals across research, due diligence, and reporting functions
• Reduced firm cost structure by >75%, restoring profitability while maintaining client service continuity
• Streamlined investment reporting and performance attribution, improving clarity and usability for institutional clients
• Produced macroeconomic and investment strategy insights to support client decision-making

Senior Vice President, Investment Strategy Group at PERMAL ASSET MANAGEMENT (Legg Mason / EnTrust Global) (2013-01 – 2016-12)

• Supported global institutional business development by designing customized alternative investment portfolios and asset allocation strategies
• Advised on portfolio construction across hedge fund strategies including macro, long/short equity, event-driven, and relative value
• Delivered investment insights and performance analytics to institutional clients across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Middle East
• Improved platform scalability and implementation efficiency, reducing portfolio delivery timelines by >80%

Portfolio Manager at PERMAL ASSET MANAGEMENT (Legg Mason / EnTrust Global) (2011-01 – 2013-12)

• Managed a $100M+ European-focused fund of hedge funds across multiple strategies and asset classes
• Navigated the European Financial Crisis through active risk management, liquidity planning, and tactical allocation shifts
• Conducted manager selection, underwriting, and ongoing monitoring across global hedge fund strategies
• Negotiated investment agreements for SMAs and commingled fund structures

Vice President, Operational Due Diligence at PERMAL ASSET MANAGEMENT (Legg Mason / EnTrust Global) (2009-01 – 2011-12)

• Built and led an institutional operational due diligence platform covering 140+ alternative investment managers globally
• Conducted on-site evaluations of internal controls, governance, and operational risk across multiple regulatory regimes
• Identified and mitigated risks related to fraud, compliance, and operational inefficiencies
• Managed and developed a team of 4 analysts, enhancing reporting quality and process consistency

Senior Financial Analyst at PERMAL ASSET MANAGEMENT (Legg Mason / EnTrust Global) (2007-01 – 2009-12)

• Evaluated hedge fund managers across a broad range of strategies using quantitative and qualitative frameworks
• Monitored portfolios and conducted quarterly reviews for up to 20 managers
• Presented investment recommendations and due diligence findings to the Investment Committee

MBA – Wake Forest University

BBA – University of Iowa