The Executive Director is primarily responsible for the efficient operation of the Employees’ Retirement System of Rhode Island, including payment of all benefits, maintenance of member accounts, enforcement of Rhode Island retirement laws and regulations, annual production of the actuarial valuation and financial statements and technology systems. This position reports to the fifteen-member ERSRI Board, chaired by the General Treasurer of the state of Rhode Island, and serves as a key member of the Treasury leadership team. The Executive Director also serves as a nonvoting member of the State Investment Commission.
The Executive Director has oversight responsibility of 34 staff members.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Administration
- Provide executive direction and leadership to ERSRI staff to ensure effective, timely, and highquality services to members and public agency employers
- Develop and implement a 3–5-year strategic plan for the organization
- Oversee day-to-day administration of the Retirement System
- Serve as Secretary to the Retirement Board, formulating monthly meeting agendas and materials, and sub-committee agendas and materials
- Establish, present, and administer the System’s financial budget
- Ensure prudent and responsible financial procedures and practices
- Respond to internal and external audits of the Retirement System
- Oversee division personnel administration, staffing, and training
Stakeholder Relations & Communication
- Foster productive, effective working relationships with the Retirement Board
- Effectively represent ERSRI on policy issues with legislative bodies, employees and retiree organizations, public agency employers, and other interested parties
- Build strong relationships with Board members and provide education and guidance on matters related to the system
- Navigate relationships with union leaders, members, and political leaders
- Respond to inquiries from various stakeholders with expert knowledge
- Present to the Legislature and respond to media inquiries as needed
Investment Oversight
- Serve as a non-voting member of the State Investment Commission
- Provide input on investment decisions’ potential impacts on retirees and benefits
Compliance & Technical Leadership
- Ensure enforcement of all Rhode Island retirement laws and regulations
- Secure services of hearing officers and medical advisors as necessary
- Implement and oversee technology improvements to enhance system efficiency
- Manage complex benefits structures and adapt to legislative changes as required
- Guide implementation of ongoing initiatives, including:
- Continued evaluation of all processes for efficiencies
- Pension administration software system upgrades
- In-house payroll processing transition
- Defined contribution plan reconciliation improvements
Desired Qualifications
- Strong leadership and managerial skills
- Superior written and oral communication skills
- Deep knowledge of retirement systems or benefits administration
- Understanding of actuarial concepts and financial systems
- Confident and decisive leader with the ability to navigate political pressures and stakeholder relations
- High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills
- Strong public speaking abilities and media relations capability
- Creative problem-solving skills
- Adaptability and willingness to drive improvements in processes and efficiencies
Personal Characteristics
- Confident but approachable leadership style
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Professional demeanor
- Ability to balance multiple stakeholder interests
- Patience and resilience when facing resistance to change
- Comfort with public visibility and political dynamics
- Understanding of Rhode Island’s culture or a willingness to immerse in it
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required (or equivalent work experience), Master’s degree preferred
- Senior management experience with a large public or private retirement system
- Experience working with Boards and Committees
- Full understanding of retirement and pension fund issues
- Experience appearing before legislative and administrative bodies
Compensation
- Competitive Base Salary
- Medical Benefits
- Retirement Benefit Plan
- Relocation assistance is available if necessary
Application Process
CBIZ, an executive search firm, is assisting ERS with this important search. All calls and inquiries should be made through the search firm. Applications will be held in confidence. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please email your resume and cover letter to Tamara Wesely at Tamara.Wesely@cbiz.com.
Non-Discrimination
Our client andCBIZ firmly support the principle and philosophy of equal opportunity for all individuals, regardless of age, race, gender, creed, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected category pursuant to applicable federal, state or local law.
