Learn how a seasoned Total Rewards leader evaluates advisors, builds strategic vendor relationships, and navigates innovation like AI and retirement income—while keeping benefits simple, human, and effective. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what plan sponsors really value and how benefit professionals can stand out. In this episode, Eric and Ira Finn discuss: Career path into benefits and total rewardsNetworking, conferences, and professional associations (PSCA, NAPA, WorldatWork)How young benefit professionals can stand outWhat makes service providers indispensable vs. replaceableFuture of total rewards, AI, integration, and retirement income innovation Key Takeaways: Starting in the call center or “at the bottom of the ladder” can be a powerful foundation, because you learn plans directly through employee questions and real-world issues.Consistent networking through associations, conferences, and peer groups delivers long-term career leverage and insight that you simply can’t get inside your own company.The best service providers act as a seamless extension of the HR team: responsive, relationship-driven, and focused on solving problems quickly rather than sending long, dense emails.Committees need structured, staged education on emerging solutions like retirement income; HR must be the expert in the room and guide that process over multiple meetings.AI and better system integrations are reshaping total rewards, and those who learn how to harness these tools to save time and improve employee experience will be better positioned for the future. “It's a people business, and having that personal relationship, being able to answer questions, knowing that I have someone that I could count on, that is critical to me." - Ira Finn Ira Finn is a seasoned expert in Total Rewards with over 10 years as Head of the department. Ira started his career in a customer call center, answering questions about health, wellness, and retirement. Known for his adaptability, leadership, and strategic thinking, Ira has extensive global experience in total rewards, including compensation, equity plans, benefits, and HCM systems. He's managed global rewards through over 40 mergers and acquisitions in the past five years. Ira is also a past president of the Plan Sponsors Council of America, has served on the Empower Retirement client council, and was a member of the American Retirement Association's leadership committee. Outside of work, Ira is a proud dad to three incredible women and two goldens. Stay tuned for insights and stories from this industry leader. Connect with Ira Finn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benefitsofhr/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/ Phone: 940-248-4800 Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change. It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made. The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances. The opinions expressed by guests on the Be More Than a Fiduciary podcast are not necessarily the same as the opinions held by 90 North Consulting, or of Executive Director Eric Dyson.
