PLANADVISER: Tell us about your role at your firm and your current responsibilities? How do you contribute to your firm/team’s growth and progress?
Bauer: I’ve spent more than 25 years in financial services, with much of that time focused on helping retirement plan sponsors and wealth clients make smart investment decisions. Day to day, I spend a lot of time translating investment data into something meaningful, helping clients understand how their portfolios are performing, what the numbers really mean, and when it’s time to make a change.
I’m a big believer in transparency and education, so whether I’m walking through risk-and-return metrics or explaining broader market trends, my goal is to build trust by making sure clients feel confident and informed.
Within our firm, I help shape our investment approach and make sure we’re staying thoughtful and nimble as markets evolve. I take pride in holding a high standard for manager due diligence and pushing us to continually refine our models.
PLANADVISER: How did you end up in the retirement advisory industry?
Bauer: I transitioned into the retirement advisory industry through a combination of early personal experience, a passion for financial education and professional growth. My interest in investing began at a young age, inspired by my father and fueled by firsthand experiences with market fluctuations. This early exposure sparked a curiosity about investments and financial markets.
During college, I volunteered at a nonprofit credit counseling service, where I discovered my passion for helping individuals and families navigate their financial challenges. Creating basic financial plans and focusing on cash flow management reinforced my desire to empower people with the knowledge and tools to improve their financial well-being.
Professionally, I started in financial planning and progressed to an investment manager role overseeing a large investment platform. While I valued the experience, what truly motivated me was the opportunity to engage directly with plan sponsors and participants.
This blend of personal passion, hands-on experience and a commitment to client-focused service naturally led me to the retirement advisory industry, where I could combine my skills and interests to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ financial futures.
PLANADVISER: What are you most passionate about outside of the office?
Bauer: When I’m not working, I love being outdoors, riding bikes, hiking or just walking near the water. There’s something about being in nature that helps me reset and refocus. Give me a quiet beach or a shady trail, and I’m happy.
I also really enjoy working with my hands. Whether it’s fixing up an old car or tackling a DIY project, I find a lot of satisfaction in figuring things out and making them work again. It’s a nice contrast to the desk-and-data side of my job. More grease and tools, less spreadsheets and charts!