Retirement Service Consultant

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New Jersey, +2 more states.

📋 Description

• Accountable for safeguarding, securing, and appropriately managing all confidential information retained by Ascensus to prevent unauthorized access, improper transmission, and/or unauthorized disclosure of data that could potentially harm Ascensus or our clients.

• Deliver consistently high levels of consultative client service while effectively communicating and collaborating with clients and partners to resolve issues, conduct necessary research, and provide innovative solutions.

• Exhibit comprehensive knowledge of retirement plans and the Ascensus business model.

• Guide and mentor colleagues in all facets of retirement plan management and client relations, considering both client and Ascensus needs to determine suitable solutions.

• Efficiently track and follow up on assigned tasks; this includes identifying necessary actions to resolve client concerns, documenting, and implementing solutions as required.

• Ensure clients and advisors receive clear and concise communication about services, execution, and resolution throughout the service cycle.

• Build and sustain robust working relationships with dedicated clients and financial professionals, providing updates on product and plan initiatives.

• Engage in the management of vendor relationships on behalf of clients and partners.

• Foster client retention by anticipating client needs and recommending changes or actions alongside the Relationship Manager.

• Meet individual and team objectives for service levels, growth, and retention for the assigned portfolio.

• Identify and systematically document "opportunity plans" in collaboration with the Relationship Manager to mitigate risks.

• Implement strategic plans to ensure the retention and satisfaction of clients and financial professionals’ portfolios.

• Achieve service level targets, retention, and organic growth goals set for each financial partner by evaluating opportunities within the assigned portfolio.

• Take responsibility for proactive communication with clients and partners regarding all aspects of service delivery.

• Gather and share feedback with relevant internal teams.

• Organize daily schedules for yourself and the team based on client requirements and business needs.

• Leverage industry knowledge across all areas of retirement operations and service.

• Ensure commitments to clients are fulfilled by proactively reviewing the status of assigned plans’ periodic activities (compliance testing, 5500 forms, quarterly statements, RMDs, etc.).

• Evaluate client objectives, needs, and behaviors to recommend plan, product, or functionality modifications that enhance outcomes for our clients.

• Instruct clients on plan features, product capabilities, and Ascensus functionalities and processes.

• Generate improvement ideas and provide feedback/solutions to plan sponsors and financial professionals to minimize risk and enhance processes.

• Assist peers and managers by managing escalated issues/calls from clients, ensuring oversight and resolution of these escalated matters.

• Coach and mentor team members and offer feedback to the team manager for performance enhancement.

• Cultivate and maintain strong internal relationships across different departments and locations.

• Act as a subject matter expert on specific topics as necessary.

• Responsible for creating materials, training, and assisting colleagues across departments in these areas.

• Perform additional duties and engage in or lead special projects as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.

• A minimum of 1-3 years of direct client experience is essential, with a preference for background in the Retirement Services industry.

• Certification or progress towards certification (ASPPA, CEBS, etc.) in industry-related programs is preferred.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively (clearly, concisely, and professionally) with all levels within the Ascensus organization, as well as with our client base.

• Excellent presentation skills, business etiquette, client service abilities, and time management capabilities.

• Proven professionalism in all aspects of the role.

• Familiarity with financial services systems (such as recordkeeping, trust, trading) and experience in plan recordkeeping and trust reconciliation.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and Excel, with Access and PowerPoint preferred.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• In-depth knowledge of retirement plans, ERISA, DOL, and IRS regulations, as well as plan documents (both individually designed and prototype).

• Ability to collaborate within a team environment to achieve the shared goal of providing exceptional client service.

• Serve as a change agent to initiate and respond positively to change.

• Capable of performing well under pressure with multiple priorities and deadlines in a demanding environment.

• Ability to make sound business judgments regarding issues that could lead to significant financial and client relations liabilities if mishandled.

• Willingness to work extended hours to meet business requirements as needed.

• Quality-oriented with strong attention to detail.

• Ability to lead a team and/or project successfully.

• Willingness to travel as necessary.

🏝️ Benefits

• 401(k) matching

• Medical coverage

• Dental insurance

• Vision benefits

• Paid Time Off