Matthew Benjamin
Wealth Management Advisor|MBA, CLU®, CFP®
Providing high-level planning for businesses, executives, and their families.
Meet my amazing team
How can we assist you?
In my team you'll find expert professionals and first-class staff. They strive to develop trusted relationships with clients. My team is detail-oriented and able to identify the complex aspects of both personal and business needs analysis. They have access to a wide array of specialists offering advanced expertise. Together they create a solid framework to help you achieve your goals.
To schedule an appointment, make changes to your policy, submit a claim, or request any other service, please contact any member of the team. We're here for you and will be glad to help!

Jodi Mahoney
Director of Client Services
Jodi strives to be a point of contact for advanced client care, case development, and client planning oversight. She works closely with the team to manage investment and insurance processes. Jodi finds fulfillment and enjoyment in offering the best care and service to Matt’s clients, and values her relationships with them.
Jodi is a native Oregonian, and lives out in the country with a small flock of free-range chickens, a few cats, and a friendly neighbor dog who keeps watch over everyone. In her free time, she treasures spending time with her son and large extended family, as she has seven siblings Please reach out to Jodi if you have any questions or investment or insurance needs

Wendy Kaufman Laudette
Director of Marketing and Business Operations
Wendy has been with Northwestern Mutual since 2014. Her prior work experience has varied from employment estimating houses for a home builder to managing a shelter for homeless families for a non-profit organization. On Matt's team, she plans community support activities, keeps the client's data current and organized, and helps wherever is needed.
Outside of the office, Wendy loves reading a good book, spending time near the ocean, and trying new restaurants. If you’re looking to schedule an appointment with Matt or need to change your address or phone information, reach out to Wendy.

Ken Jewett
MBA
Director of Employer and Participant Services
Ken is our retirement plan specialist. If you're a business owner and would like to offer a retirement plan at your business, Ken can make that happen for you. If you currently have a plan that we manage, then you've already met and worked with Ken and know how knowledgeable he is!
Ken’s originally from New Brunswick, Canada and lives in Salem, Oregon with his wife Robin and their two teenage children, adopted from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ken joined Northwestern Mutual in 2020 and contributes his expansive knowledge of 401k planning and his ability to make this complex subject understandable and accessible. Contact Ken for anything related to 401k planning.

Katya Mendez
Recruiter
Katya works to discover top talent for the Salem Office and to provide others with a fulfilling career path in the financial services industry. She enjoys helping people realize their strengths and empowering others to be their best. Katya is originally from Labinsk, Russia and in her free time, she enjoys snowboarding, gardening, or any outdoor activity. If you are interested in a career as a Financial Representative in the Salem Office, reach out to Katya.

Kate Trauernicht
Recruiter
Kate is born and raised in Salem and attended the University of Oregon. She joined the team in 2024 and works to provide others with meaningful careers in the financial services industry. Kate enjoys talking with potential candidates about exploring new career paths and appreciates how everyone on the Salem team truly wants to see one other succeed. When she’s not at the office, Kate loves taking her dog to the park, working out, line dancing, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and being in the sunshine. If you are interested in a career as a Financial Representative in the Salem Office, reach out to Kate.

Isaac Parker
Associate Financial Representative
Issac joined Matt’s team in 2024, and specializes in personal and family financial planning. He enjoys working at Northwestern Mutual because he loves being a part of a team, having a purpose, and doing something that is helpful to others. Isaac is originally from Wahiawa, Hawaii, and moved out to Oregon to attend Willamette University. Outside of work, Issac enjoys spending time with his family, and coaching football. Contact Isaac if you are looking to set up a planning meeting.
Erica Nixon
Insurance Specialist
Erica joined Matt's team in 2025 as an Insurance Specialist and Receptionist. She is committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for clients, assisting with insurance inquiries, and managing office operations. Erica takes pride in being a helpful resource for clients and enjoys fostering strong, professional relationships.
Born and raised in Salem, Erica enjoys spending her free time exploring her passion for art and music, as well as making memories with her family. If you need assistance with scheduling or have any insurance-related questions, feel free to reach out to Erica.
Meet My Strategic Partners
Through Northwestern Mutual, I have access to a Network of Specialists. We help each other, share ideas and common values, and leverage each other's talents to help you achieve your personal dream of financial security.

Alex Fitch
Wealth Management Advisor
Along with serving his clients, Alex leads our office in Bend, OR, and is always looking for top talent to grow the team. If you are looking for a career in the financial services industry, or are looking for a Financial Advisor located in the Bend area, reach out to Alex.