Ellen-Ann Doman

EXPERIENCE: 

I have over 20 years of experience in financial services, specializing in retirement plans.  Initially I spent several years as corporate customer service trainer before transitioning to become a retirement plan educator.   I met with employees from client organizations nationwide, helping them understand the importance of the retirement plan.  I moved into a Relationship Manager position for a nationally recognized recordkeeper, where I worked closely with business owners, CEOs, CFOs, and HR directors to evaluate and enhance the retirement plan offered by their organizations, ensuring they meet both the needs of the employees and the goals of the business.    

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU AS A RETIREMENT PLAN PROFESSIONAL?  

I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to secure a comfortable retirement. Company-sponsored retirement plans are among the most accessible ways for individuals to save for their future and often become their largest financial asset. I am driven by the idea that everyone should have a clear plan for both the accumulation phase of their savings and the phase when it's time to begin drawing from those funds. My goal is to be a relatable and approachable expert on the employer sponsored retirement plan for employers and their employees.  Ensuring that people understand their options and feel confident in their retirement journey is what motivates me every day.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? 

I truly enjoy the relationships I have formed with each client and learning about their business and unique company culture.  No two days are the same given the variety of clients, the changing markets, and the various legislative changes.  I like process, details, and efficiency, which is useful when working with the many moving parts of a retirement plan. 

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST SUCCESS IN THE PAST YEAR?

A small business owner had a change in the demographics of his workforce resulting in a Top-Heavy plan for the first time and a full refund of his contributions.  I was able explain what happened and help present solutions that led to implementing a safe harbor plan with an automatic enrollment feature, an automatic increase feature, and a company match.  We upgraded the plan sponsor and participant experience with their recordkeeper by integrating payroll and adding functionality on the website for employee changes.  The HR Director was thrilled to reduce the time spent on a weekly basis regarding the retirement plan.  Participation remains at 100%, and the deferral rate is equal to or above the match level one year later.  Employees are engaged and excited about the plan, grateful to their employer, and the owner is now able to save in the plan rather than receiving a full refund. 

HOW DO YOU HELP YOUR CUSTOMERS OVERCOME THEIR CHALLENGES? 

First, I listen as clients identify an issue, then ask qualifying questions before assisting the advisors with coordinating a solution.  Retirement plans can be complex, and issues and resolutions range from plan design, compliance with ERISA, new legislation, vendor capabilities, internal client processes and employee education.  As I assist the advisor to the plan, I help advocate for the client with recordkeepers, third party administrators, and payroll companies to reach a resolution.    

EDUCATION & LICENSES: 

I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Bradley University.  I hold both FINRA Series 6 and 63 licenses as well as a Wisconsin Life Insurance license.

ORGANIZATIONS:

I am a past board member of Greater Milwaukee Employee Benefits Council.