Director, ESOP Administration

We are a professional services firm that provides third-party retirement plan administration services for companies that sponsor Employee Stock Ownership (ESOPs) and 401(k) Plans. Our offices are located in Charlottesville, VA, Columbia, MD, Columbus, OH, Westchester, IL, Pasadena, CA and Maple Grove, MN, although our client base is nationwide.  We are one of the top 2 companies that provide ESOP administration consulting services in the country, and we continue to grow our retirement services business (401(k), DB, CB, etc). We are seeking sharp, detail-oriented, dedicated individuals to join our team.  

We are hiring a Director, ESOP Administration

The Director, ESOP Administration will be responsible for overseeing the administration of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for Blue Ridge Associates' clients, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, accurate, and compliant services. The role requires strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities, as well as deep technical knowledge of ESOP regulations and plan administration. The Director will manage client relationships, mentor staff, and identify opportunities for improvement and expansion of services. The role also involves consulting on complex compliance issues, improving processes, and maintaining a proactive approach to client satisfaction. 

 Essential Functions 

Leadership & Administration Oversight:

o Oversee the administration of complex ESOPs, ensuring accuracy in allocations, compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., 409(p) testing, Section 1042 restrictions), and timely completion of deliverables.

o Supervise a team of administrative consultants and/or ESOP Managers, ensuring a minimal error rate in plan administration and high client satisfaction.

o Act as a go-to person for difficult plan administration and compliance issues, offering consultative solutions for both internal staff and clients.

Client Consultation & Compliance:

o Provide consultative services to clients on ESOP compliance, regulations, and best practices, including complex areas such as prohibited transactions, plan terminations, and 415 failures.

o Build strong relationships with clients, offering proactive advice on service enhancements, compliance, and opportunities to optimize their ESOP.

o Review work completed by team members, identifying areas of concern related to regulatory compliance, and providing feedback and actionable solutions.

o Support clients with complex situations such as ESOP transactions, plan amendments, and regulatory filings.

Team Mentorship & Development:

o Mentor and train team members, providing constructive feedback and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

o Assist in the professional development of the team, ensuring appropriate certifications (e.g., QKA, QPA) and competency in ESOP administration and compliance.

o Lead by example, demonstrating a consultative approach to client service, fostering teamwork, and promoting shared knowledge and resources.

o Provide leadership in the review and feedback process for junior staff, helping them grow professionally and meet performance expectations.

Process Improvement & Innovation:

o Lead and/or participate in initiatives to improve administration processes and operational efficiencies, ensuring high-quality service delivery and enhanced client satisfaction.

o Identify opportunities for the implementation of new technologies, tools, or optional services (e.g., ESOP Connection, ESOP Governance) to streamline processes and improve client outcomes.

o Contribute to the development of best practices in ESOP administration and regulatory compliance to ensure Blue Ridge remains at the forefront of the industry.

Other Duties

o Actively participate in management meetings, contributing to strategic planning, client retention discussions, and team performance evaluations.

o Review and approve client reports, ensuring timelines are met, and all deliverables meet high standards of quality and compliance.

o Manage assigned performance evaluations for direct reports, providing timely feedback and identifying opportunities for training, continuing education, and professional development.

o Collaborate with internal teams to resolve client issues and assist with the development of solutions that improve customer satisfaction and service delivery.

Skills/Abilities

· ESOP Expertise: In-depth knowledge of ESOP rules, regulations, and compliance requirements, including experience with complex areas such as 409(p) testing, prohibited transactions, and Section 1042 restrictions.

· Leadership & Mentorship: Proven ability to lead and mentor a team, providing guidance, feedback, and professional development.

· Consultative Approach: Ability to articulate complex issues in simple terms and take a consultative approach to advising clients on ESOP-related matters.

· Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong, lasting relationships with clients, offering solutions that add value and foster trust.

· Process Improvement: Ability to identify areas for process improvement and efficiency gains, enhancing both internal workflows and client satisfaction.

· Communication & Presentation Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex issues clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

· Industry Networking: Actively participate in industry groups, network with industry professionals, and contribute to Blue Ridge’s reputation as a thought leader in the ESOP space.

Education/Experience

· Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in a related field (e.g., Business, Finance, or Law).

· Certifications: QKA, QPA, or similar certification preferred.

· ESOP Experience: At least 10+ years of experience in ESOP plan administration or a related field, with a strong track record of managing complex ESOPs and regulatory compliance.

· Leadership Experience: Experience leading and managing teams, mentoring staff, and contributing to business development is preferred.

· Client Service Excellence: Strong history of delivering excellent client service and developing long-lasting client relationships.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and ESOP-specific tools or platforms (e.g., ESOP Connection, ESOP Governance).

Supervisory Responsibility 

· Direct supervision of a team of ESOP Managers and ESOP Administrative Consultants, including providing feedback, mentoring, and performance evaluations.

· Support the development and growth of team members, assisting with the achievement of certifications, and addressing performance or development challenges.

Work Environment

Available to work overtime to cover peak workloads and other business needs

Travel

Must be able to travel as needed (less than 10%)

Benefits:

We offer challenging work, a competitive salary, and an outstanding opportunity for career growth for the right candidate. Our comprehensive benefits package includes Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & AD&D, Disability, FSA, HSA with company contribution, 401(k) with company match, parental leave, paid time off and education/association dues assistance.

We work hard, but we also have fun. As a Blue Ridge Associates employee, you will be a part of a company that supports charitable activities through fundraising and volunteer work. You'll enjoy quarterly virtual Happy Hours, Monthly Birthday Celebrations and Annual Social gatherings where we celebrate our successes. You'll have opportunities to shine by joining one of our committees or by volunteering for a special project that calls your name.

Come join us!

Don't miss this opportunity to become a part of our dynamic organization!

Equal Opportunity Employer

Must be authorized to work in the US.