Director of Defined Contribution

State Universities Retirement System of Illinois•Champaign, IL

5d•$109,810 - $137,260•Hybrid

About The Position

Lead strategy. Strengthen retirement programs. Deliver exceptional member outcomes. If you are passionate about retirement plan leadership, strategic partnerships, and delivering high-quality retirement services, this role offers the opportunity to share and guide SURS’ defined contribution plans. As the Director of Defined Contribution, you will lead the strategy, oversight, and administration of the SURS Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) and Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP). You will serve as the primary internal leader responsible for coordinating investment, legal, accounting, counseling, communications, and vendor partners to ensure these plans operate efficiently, compliantly, and in alignment with SURS’ mission. This role combines strategic leadership, operational oversight, and vendor management while supporting a collaborative, mission-driven organization serving members throughout Illinois public higher education.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
A total of one (1) year (12 months) in education, training and/or work experience in the area of specialization inherent to the position. (Note: Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)
At least four (4) years of professional experience in retirement plan administration, financial services, pension administration, or a related field. (Note: A Master’s Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
Demonstrated ability to effectively train, coach, mentor, and provide constructive feedback
Demonstrated ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines
Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate operational data and reports
Ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external partners
Professional presence and ability to positively represent the organization with stakeholders
Strong facilitation and presentation skills
Analytical mindset to assess learning gaps and operational trends
High level of professionalism and adaptability in a changing environment
Excellent time management and organizational skills

Nice To Haves

Experience administering or overseeing defined contribution retirement plans such as 401(a), 403(b), or 457(b)
Experience working with retirement plan recordkeepers or third-party administrators
Experience managing vendor relationships and service level agreements
Familiarity with government retirement plans or public pension systems
Experience working with investment consultants or evaluating retirement plan investment lineups
Increasing leadership experience within benefits, financial services, or retirement plan administration
Experience preparing operational reports, board materials, or audit documentation

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the SURS Retirement Savings Plan (401a) and Deferred Compensation Plan (457b)
Ensure the effective and efficient administration of both defined contribution plans
Monitor compliance with SURS policies, applicable statutes, and plan documents
Identify opportunities to improve plan operations, services, and member experiences
Serve as the primary liaison between SURS and the defined contribution recordkeeper, investment consultants, and other service providers
Monitor service level agreements and vendor performance to ensure quality service delivery
Collaborate with internal teams and vendors to resolve complex operational issues
Participate in vendor due diligence and evaluate opportunities to enhance plan services and capabilities
Lead and support a team responsible for processing member terminations, forfeitures, refunds, and retirement distributions
Provide coaching, guidance, and performance management to team members
Assign and prioritize work to ensure service standards are met
Develop reporting and tracking mechanisms that support division goals and operational excellence
Partner with the SURS investment team to analyze and recommend improvements to the defined contribution investment lineup
Participate in discussions regarding innovative retirement plan strategies and industry best practices
Stay informed on developments within the pension and defined contribution industry
Work closely with SURS teams including legal, accounting, counseling, communications, customer service and employer services to support program administration
Create educational materials and member communications related to the RSP and DCP
Serve as a technical resource for defined contribution operations and plan administration
Participate in initiatives supporting the implementation and ongoing enhancement of the SURS Pension Administration System
Support testing, system improvements, and process alignment for defined contribution operations
Assist with reporting and analysis related to Board reports, audits, and organizational initiatives
Represent SURS’ defined contribution programs with external partners and professional organizations
Participate in conferences, industry discussions, and collaborative forums when appropriate
Maintain awareness of emerging trends, regulatory changes, and innovations in defined contribution plan management