Powerlist – In-House Counsel

MaryBeth Matzek, Freelance Editor//January 28, 2025//

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Ryan Heinemann finds his role as vice president and general counsel for Northwestern Mutual fulfilling.

“Being inside (as general counsel) allows me to become part of the team and work directly with my colleagues and partners to achieve their business goals,” he said.

In his current role, Heinemann leads the organization’s law department, which is responsible for providing all legal advice and has more than 130 lawyers, paralegals and other professionals. He said he likes being able to focus on one client versus working with one client and then having to move on to help another client as he did in private practice.

“My days are demanding but always interesting, and I love that. Whether advising on specific laws or supporting various business areas, the impact I have is deeply fulfilling,” Heinemann said. “In addition, as a mutual company, our focus on policyowners’ best interests makes the ethical responsibilities easier and less stressful for in-house counsel. I’m proud to advise and work for a company that strives to do right by its clients.”