Grace Bennett

PLANADVISER: Tell us about your role at your firm and how you contribute to its growth and progress. How did you end up there?

Bennett: I began my career at Lebel & Harriman as a relationship manager shortly after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in finance. Over my first year, I focused on learning the fundamentals of retirement plans and gaining familiarity with our clients through administrative and operational projects. I was also pursuing my MBA, which sparked my strategic thinking and curiosity about the ‘why’ behind the way things are done.

I co-lead our small business team, launched in late 2023 to support small businesses starting or enhancing their retirement plans. Working with first-time plan sponsors taught me how to communicate complex topics in a clear, digestible way. I try to take a similar approach with internal workflows by striving for simplicity. As a result, one of my most impactful contributions was managing a revamp of our CRM system, streamlining how we track, report and demonstrate value to clients.

Now, three years into my career, I’m the director of operations for our employer financial services team, in addition to my relationship manager role. I’ve realized that internal operations and client service are deeply interconnected. Efficient processes enable us to deliver timely, accurate and personalized support to our clients, ultimately leading to our firm’s growth.

PLANADVISER: What steps do you think will help improve the retirement industry and participant outcomes in the future (particularly ways in which your firm can help with that progress)?

Bennett: A strong step toward improving the retirement industry and participant outcomes will be learning to leverage technology while preserving a high-touch, personalized service model. Digital tools can make retirement planning more accessible, engaging and efficient. However, technology alone cannot replace the value provided by advisers. Participants benefit most when digital tools are combined with high-touch, relationship-driven guidance. Finances are deeply personal, and advice should be tailored to an individual’s values, goals, challenges and life stage.

At Lebel & Harriman, we embrace emerging technology without losing sight of the personal, community-based relationships that define our approach. We offer custom digital education platforms, encourage automated plan features and create financial wellness content based on everyday needs. These tools supplement, not replace, our hands-on participant education, fiduciary guidance and administrative support. As the retirement landscape continues to evolve, innovation and thoughtful service will play an integral role in helping plan sponsors and participants achieve their financial goals.

PLANADVISER: Have you had mentors or role models? Who are they and what lessons have you learned from them?

Bennett: I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues who collectively have hundreds of years of experience in the retirement industry and who generously share their knowledge and insight. Two women, in particular, have had a profound impact on me, both personally and professionally: my fellow relationship managers, Laurie Reed and Vickie Bell. Through their mentorship, I’ve broadened my knowledge of the industry, while also learning the interpersonal skills that build and maintain meaningful client relationships.

Laurie’s impact on the firm is immeasurable. She is a partner, managing director, the chief administrative officer and a relationship manager of 35 years. Laurie has taught me that strong leadership is rooted in accountability, clarity and compassion. She’s instilled in me a deep appreciation for the small details, the ones that often make the biggest difference for clients and colleagues alike.

Vickie’s background in law and human resources exemplifies the balance of precision and people skills I strive to develop. Her kind and gentle personality creates space for honest conversations and strong relationships, both within the firm and with clients. Vickie has taught me the importance of listening deeply, responding thoughtfully and handling every situation with care.