Senior Trust Officer

About the role

Founded in 2008, Hightower is a wealth management firm that provides investment, financial and retirement planning services to individuals, foundations and family offices, as well as 401(k) consulting and cash management services to corporations. Based in Chicago with advisors across the U.S., Hightower operates as a registered investment advisor (RIA). Hightower Trust Company, a wholly owned subsidiary, serves Hightower’s advisors and their clients exclusively, providing fiduciary services and investment management oversight.

The team values adaptability, agility, teamwork, and clear communication. Members are expected to achieve objectives despite hurdles, navigate ambiguity, maintain composure under pressure, collaborate closely, and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients.

Responsibilities

• Administer a book of trust accounts in accordance with applicable law and fiduciary principles.
• Interpret legal documents and ensure trusts are administered per laws, regulations, and governing instruments.
• Maintain high client and advisor service levels through prompt research and response to inquiries.
• Collaborate with clients, advisors, and internal partners to achieve client objectives while preserving fiduciary integrity.
• Perform post‑acceptance and annual administrative account reviews.
• Proactively identify trust issues and partner with management, investments, tax, legal, and compliance to resolve them.
• Prepare and present discretionary memoranda for committee review and approval.
• Direct middle office to initiate account changes such as terminations.
• Maintain current knowledge of developments in trust legal and regulatory environments.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of trust administration and/or estate planning experience, with at least 7 years as a trust officer.
• Juris Doctor (JD) preferred; alternatively, a Master’s or BA/BS from an accredited institution plus relevant trust education/experience/designations.
• Strong knowledge of trust administration principles.
• Practical experience in RIA and/or wealth management environments strongly preferred.

Skills

• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment with excellent time‑management and multitasking abilities.
• Strong analytical skills for problem research, root‑cause determination, and solution implementation.
• Superior organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently, as well as collaboratively in a group setting.
• Highly motivated self‑starter.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage on the first day of employment.
• Paid parental leave (16 weeks for primary caregiver, 8 weeks for secondary caregiver).
• On‑site mother’s lounge.
• Flexible PTO plan.
• Hybrid schedule: in‑office Monday‑Thursday, work‑from‑home Friday.
• Free brand‑new gym in the Chicago office.
• 401(k) matching plan.
• HSA employer contributions.
• Student loan assistance.
• Pet insurance.

Pay

Base salary of $140,000 – $150,000 plus a discretionary bonus (exact base salary dependent on experience).