Jennifer V. Bauder

PLANADVISER: How did you end up in the retirement advisory industry?

Bauder: No one begins their college journey with the goal of working in retirement plan operations. I earned my degree in history, imagining a future spent curating museum exhibitions and planning installations. But after graduation, my first job led me to an asset management firm, and I quickly discovered that the skills I developed through my history studies—critical thinking, research, analysis and communication—were highly transferable and valuable in the financial services industry.

Over the past 30 years, I’ve gained broad experience across various areas of financial services, including retirement planning, insurance and private wealth. My roles have evolved and expanded, ultimately leading me to my current position as principal and director of retirement planning at Cornerstone Advisors Asset Management, LLC. I’m passionate about retirement plan operations and proud to be part of a firm that shares the same dedication to this important area of our industry.

PLANADVISER: What are the skills that are most needed to be successful in your role?

Bauder: Skills that lead to success:

• Organization: Managing retirement plans involves numerous complex components, making strong organizational skills essential. Having well-documented procedures and reliable systems for tracking ongoing projects is key to effectively managing these moving parts; and
• Responsiveness: A simple rule of thumb is to aim to return all phone calls and emails on the same day they’re received. While it’s OK not to have an immediate answer, acknowledging the inquiry and setting expectations for a follow-up timeframe helps build trust and demonstrates reliability; and
• Persistence: Vendors such as recordkeepers, third-party administrators and auditors aren’t always prompt in responding. Being persistent in following up and consistently advocating for the client’s best interests are critical parts of the role.

PLANADVISER: For people who don’t understand this space; how would you describe your job to get someone excited about pursuing something similar?

Bauder: Imagine making one change that could positively influence the financial future of thousands of people—that’s the kind of impact you can have working in retirement plan operations. In this role, you collaborate directly with plan sponsors to enhance plan design, reduce costs and choose suitable investment options. These improvements help boost participant engagement and set more individuals on the path to a secure retirement.

You’ll build meaningful relationships with organizations across a wide range of sectors—from nonprofits and corporations to government entities. Not only will you be helping employees prepare for retirement, but you’ll also support plan sponsors in fulfilling their responsibilities more effectively and efficiently.

It’s a rewarding career that combines strategy, relationship-building and the satisfaction of making a tangible difference in people’s lives.