Carol McShera

PLANADVISER: Tell us about your role at your firm and how you contribute to its growth and progress.

McShera: In my role, I help institutions design, implement and manage retirement plans that align with the financial goals of their participants and remain in compliance with the ever-changing regulatory environment. I work to build strong relationships with clients by providing timely, accurate and consultative support to address everyday plan management responsibilities and to minimize fiduciary risk to the institution. Being a reliable resource to both clients and influence centers leads to a healthy referral network, which helps to ensure our firm’s continued growth and progress.

PLANADVISER: What motivates you to stay in the retirement/advisory industry?

McShera: The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s financial futures motivates me to stay in our industry. I enjoy educating clients on plan design and fiduciary best practices that result in effective and competitive retirement programs aligned with the financial needs of employees. I am also motivated by building lasting client relationships built on trust and integrity.

PLANADVISER: What advice would you give to someone entering the industry today?

McShera: Clients rely on us to give accurate and consultative support on many difference topics. It’s important to have a good understanding of the fundamentals and to form a perspective to be able to provide the most effective support for clients. Also, our industry and our firms tend to have a lot of different areas of expertise. Definitely spend the time to understand how all the different areas work together to accomplish your firm’s goals and how each role/position contributes to the process. Always ask others what you can do help make their lives easier—and do that!