PLANADVISER: How do you define success in your role?
McChristian: Success in my role is defined by my ability to guide clients confidently and clearly as they navigate the transition between 401(k) recordkeepers. Serving as the project manager, I am aware that I represent Newfront’s first impression, and I strive to ensure clients feel reassured, supported and informed at every stage. By fostering strong working relationships with both clients and recordkeepers, I set the tone for a positive experience and lasting collaboration. My goal is for clients to feel secure in their choice to work with Newfront, knowing that their plan and participants are well cared for. If I achieve that, I know I have succeeded.
PLANADVISER: Have you had mentors or role models? Who are they and what lessons have you learned from them?
McChristian: I’m fortunate to have more than one. My team at Newfront Retirement Services has become a daily source of inspiration. They meet my questions with compassion and create a space in which curiosity is encouraged and growth is supported. Their example reminds me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about fostering an environment where people feel safe to learn and thrive. I also look up to my parents, who, even after divorcing when I was young, parented with love and resilience. They showed me strength through their perseverance and gave me space to develop my own approach to parenting and leadership, with empathy and intention.
PLANADVISER: What have you done that you are most proud of at work? Personally?
McChristian: Professionally, I am proud to have contributed to the development of policies and procedures that improve efficiency across teams. Seeing my ideas grow through collaboration and ultimately be adopted by other departments is especially rewarding. Above all, I am proud of embracing failure as part of growth. When an idea doesn’t succeed, I welcome the opportunity to try again and create something stronger. Personally, I bring this same mindset to parenting. As a mom to a teenager and a toddler, I may not always get it right, but I am committed to raising emotionally intelligent kids with a growth mindset. That, to me, is the highest calling.