Patrick Donnelly

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

Donnelly: In my current role, I work primarily with our large market defined contribution and defined benefit clients, to whom I provide plan consulting, specializing in investments and portfolio management. I work on the development of our discretionary services like adviser-managed accounts and custom glide path solutions. I also get involved with new client acquisition by participating directly in finalist presentations. Effective August 1, I am the investment director for our defined contribution practice, managing a team of investment consultants, as well as developing and driving our strategy across our client base.

I came to CBIZ eight years ago from a role in retail wealth, insurance and retirement advisory. After seeing first-hand how underprepared many were for retirement (often when it was too late), I had a desire to transition to institutional consulting so that I could help influence positive participant outcomes sooner in the savings and investment life cycle.

Throughout my career, I have been tasked with credentialling, which has taken me through the CFA and CFP programs.

PLANADVISER: How do you define success in your role?

Donnelly: As a fiduciary, I believe the leading definition of success is positive participant outcomes. Right behind that is client satisfaction. If both of those are in order, firm success and growth should come naturally.

PLANADVISER: What are you most passionate about outside of the office?

Donnelly: My passion outside of work (and really the reason I show up for work) resides squarely with the loved ones I am surrounded by. I’ve been married to my wife, Katie, for six years, and we have two incredible children. We are both fortunate to have our families close by and many friends in the area. We like to travel, stay active and perpetuate hope that one day Cleveland sports will be on the map.