Jaimie Greenleaf at TPSU event in Boston area
Cafaro-Greenleaf Principal Jamie Greenleaf and Boston-based partner and affiliate Andrea Vassiliadis led TPSU programs last week at Rutgers and Bentley University respectively. TPSU had a record four programs last week and will conduct 65 programs this year and over 80 next year as we expand from 37 Educational Zones to 50 in 2016 with great demand from advisors looking to become TPSU Adjunct Lecturers.
Jamie Greenleaf focused on ways that advisors can make the complex appear to be simple. It starts with eliminating arcane industry language that many insiders expect plan sponsors to understand. It can be as simple as “plan sponsor” or even “investment committee” but many professionals expect clients and prospects to know what 408(b)(2) means. Get real – and real simple!
One of the key lessons that Jamie imparted to plan sponsors at the Rutgers TPSU program was never have a meeting that does not have an immediate actions step at the end. For example, if there’s an educational meeting for employees, make sure there’s an opportunity for them to enroll or change their allocations or deferrals.
Andrea Vassiliadis explained why her background as a TPA has really helped her to help her clients in her role as the advisor. When working with advisors, mostly emerging or blind squirrels, she was forced to cover for them which was frustrating and difficult. Though most plan advisors have a strong investment background, few understand compliance which is foundational for most plan sponsors. Even if there is a TPA involved, a technically proficient advisor is a huge benefit.
We’ve been taping interviews with plan sponsors and the Adjunct Lecturers after each of our recent TPSU programs which will be aired on 401kTV, a daily newsletter and portal for plan sponsors, set to launch December 1. Stay “tuned”.
