Northern Trust is one of the world’s largest asset management companies, managing over $1 trillion in assets. Investment associate is an important position at Northern Trust that supports portfolio managers in securities analysis and portfolio management. In this article, we will explore the average salary of a Northern Trust investment associate and the key factors that impact it.

Base salary for entry level investment associate at Northern Trust
The average base salary for an entry level investment associate at Northern Trust is around $80,000 to $90,000. This is the typical starting salary straight out of undergraduate or graduate school. As an investment associate gains more experience, the base salary can increase to over $100,000.
Total compensation with bonus
On top of base salary, investment associates at Northern Trust are eligible for an annual bonus. This bonus is typically 20-30% of base salary. So total compensation for an investment associate can range from $100,000 to $120,000 annually.
Higher compensation levels with seniority
As investment associates take on more responsibility and get promoted, their compensation levels increase substantially. A senior or principal investment associate at Northern Trust can earn $150,000 to $250,000 or more in total compensation.
Location and cost of living impact
An investment associate’s salary at Northern Trust also depends on location and cost of living. Those working in global financial centers like New York, London, and Hong Kong tend to earn more than those in smaller regional offices. The higher cost of living is taken into account.
Performance and contribution matters
Stellar performers are rewarded with higher bonus payouts and faster promotions at Northern Trust. Investment associates who consistently exceed expectations and make significant contributions will see their compensation rise rapidly.
In summary, the average salary for a Northern Trust investment associate ranges from around $100,000 to over $250,000, depending on experience level, location, performance, and contribution.