Job Description: Independent ESOP Trustee Associate
Position Summary:
The Independent ESOP Trustee Associate supports the Independent Trustee in overseeing the effective management, administration, and compliance of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). This role involves assisting with fiduciary responsibilities, transaction oversight, governance tasks, and ensuring that the ESOP operates in the best interest of plan participants while adhering to applicable laws and regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Fiduciary Support
- Assist in evaluating decisions to ensure alignment with the best interests of ESOP participants.
- Support the Independent Trustee in maintaining compliance with fiduciary duties, including the duty of loyalty, prudence, and diversification.
- Help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest.
2. Transaction Assistance
- Collaborate with valuation firms and financial advisors to analyze company stock valuation reports.
- Assist in reviewing and documenting stock transactions, including purchases, sales, and redemptions, ensuring fair market value compliance.
- Conduct preliminary research and due diligence to support ESOP-related negotiations.
3. Governance and Oversight
- Provide administrative support for voting activities, including proxy reviews and corporate governance issues.
- Monitor and report on the financial performance of ESOP-owned companies.
- Participate in discussions regarding major corporate decisions, such as mergers, acquisitions, or sales, and assist in preparing materials for the Trustee’s review.
4. Compliance and Reporting
- Help ensure compliance with ERISA and other regulatory requirements by supporting plan audits, filings, and reporting processes.
- Assist in maintaining detailed records of all Trustee actions, decisions, and related documentation.
- Collaborate with plan administrators and advisors to track contributions, distributions, and participant communications.
5. Stakeholder Communication
- Act as a liaison between the Trustee, ESOP participants, company management, and external advisors.
- Assist in drafting communications and presentations for stakeholders, ensuring transparency and clarity.
6. Administrative and Analytical Support
- Prepare summaries and reports based on data from valuation experts, legal counsel, and plan administrators.
- Conduct financial and legal research related to ESOP transactions and operations.
- Organize and maintain Trustee files, ensuring accurate and accessible documentation.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, law, accounting, or a related field.
- Previous experience in ESOP administration, corporate finance, employee benefits, or fiduciary roles is preferred.
- Familiarity with ERISA regulations and ESOP operations is a plus.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Basic understanding of business valuation principles and financial statements.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder engagement.
- Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.
Attributes:
- Integrity and a commitment to fiduciary responsibility.
- Organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Eagerness to learn about ESOPs and fiduciary governance in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently as needed.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Professional development opportunities, including training in ESOP and fiduciary responsibilities.
- Health, dental, and retirement benefits.
This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with an experienced Independent Trustee while developing expertise in ESOP governance, financial analysis, and fiduciary compliance.
This position is 100% remote.
Please send CV and covering letter to info@erisaadvisorygroup.com