Director of Defined ContributionLead strategy. Strengthen retirement programs. Deliver exceptional member outcomes.

Location:

Champaign, ILJob Type:

Full-timeClassification:

Program CoordinatorReports to: Chief Benefits OfficerIf 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.

What Youll DoAs 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.

Defined Contribution Plan LeadershipProvide 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 plansMonitor compliance with SURS policies, applicable statutes, and plan documentsIdentify opportunities to improve plan operations, services, and member experiencesVendor & Recordkeeper OversightServe as the primary liaison between SURS and the defined contribution recordkeeper, investment consultants, and other service providersMonitor service level agreements and vendor performance to ensure quality service deliveryCollaborate with internal teams and vendors to resolve complex operational issuesParticipate in vendor due diligence and evaluate opportunities to enhance plan services and capabilities Team Leadership & Operational ManagementLead and support a team responsible for processing member terminations, forfeitures, refunds, and retirement distributionsProvide coaching, guidance, and performance management to team membersAssign and prioritize work to ensure service standards are metDevelop reporting and tracking mechanisms that support division goals and operational excellenceInvestment Plan Strategy CollaborationPartner with the SURS investment team to analyze and recommend improvements to the defined contribution investment lineupParticipate in discussions regarding innovative retirement plan strategies and industry best practicesStay informed on developments within the pension and defined contribution industryCross Department CollaborationWork closely with SURS teams including legal, accounting, counseling, communications, customer service and employer services to support program administrationCreate educational materials and member communications related to the RSP and DCPServe as a technical resource for defined contribution operations and plan administrationOrganizational Initiatives & System ImplementationParticipate in initiatives supporting the implementation and ongoing enhancement of the SURS Pension Administration SystemSupport testing, system improvements, and process alignment for defined contribution operationsAssist with reporting and analysis related to Board reports, audits, and organizational initiativesExternal Representation & Industry EngagementRepresent SURS defined contribution programs with external partners and professional organizationsParticipate in conferences, industry discussions, and collaborative forums when appropriateMaintain awareness of emerging trends, regulatory changes, and innovations in defined contribution plan managementRequired QualificationsBachelors 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:

Masters 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 Masters Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience.)Preferred QualificationsExperience 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 administratorsExperience managing vendor relationships and service level agreementsFamiliarity with government retirement plans or public pension systemsExperience working with investment consultants or evaluating retirement plan investment lineupsIncreasing leadership experience within benefits, financial services, or retirement plan administrationExperience preparing operational reports, board materials, or audit documentationKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesStrong problem-solving and decision-making skillsExcellent written and verbal communication abilitiesDemonstrated ability to effectively train, coach, mentor, and provide constructive feedbackDemonstrated ability to manage priorities and meet deadlinesStrong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate operational data and reportsAbility to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external partnersProfessional presence and ability to positively represent the organization with stakeholdersStrong facilitation and presentation skillsAnalytical mindset to assess learning gaps and operational trendsHigh level of professionalism and adaptability in a changing environmentExcellent time management and organizational skillsWork Environment & CompensationFull-time position based in Champaign, ILFully in-office during initial training; potential hybrid schedule available afterwardThe starting salary range for this position is $109,810 - $137,260. This is a competitive salary, taking into consideration experience and internal equity. Highly qualified candidates may be offered a salary higher than the above range.

Standard 37.5-hour work week Benefits That MatterState of Illinois insurance benefits including medical, dental, and visionParticipation in the SURS retirement planPaid vacation, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays2 floating holidays after 6 monthsPaid parental leave after 6 monthsFlexible, professional work environmentFree parkingFind more details regarding the benefits SURS offers at: SURS Employee Benefits - SURSAbout SURSThe State Universities Retirement System (SURS) administers retirement, disability, survivor, and death benefits for over 255,000 members across Illinois public higher education institutions. Founded in 1941, SURS manages more than $30 billion in assets, including over $5 billion in defined contributions assets, and is committed to delivering accurate, timely, and compassionate service to members throughout their careers and lives.