Executive Director

The School Employees Retirement System of Ohio, located in Columbus, Ohio, with over $21 billion in net assets, is searching for an Executive Director to join this highly regarded statewide public retirement system.

SERS is widely recognized for its effective governance and delivery of high-quality member service. The System is financially strong, with a funding ratio of 79% and a disciplined funding policy that positions SERS on a clear path to full funding and long-term financial sustainability.

The position is available as a result of the Executive Director’s upcoming retirement following almost nine years of service. In SERS’ 89-year history, there have only been seven Executive Directors.

SERS, a quasi-independent state agency, is a cost-sharing, multiple-employer defined benefit public pension plan serving over 255,000 active and retired members. The System provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to non-teaching employees of Ohio’s public and charter school employees. A post-retirement health care program is also provided.

The Executive Director, reporting to the Retirement Board and to the Board Chair administratively, is the central point of responsibility for $36.2 million in administrative budget. Investment expense for FY2025 totaled $117.7 million. The relationship between the Board and management is positive and collaborative with a high level of trust and confidence built on transparency and accountability.

With overall responsibility for a team of 185, the Executive Director has seven direct reports – Deputy Executive Director, Chief Investment Officer, General Counsel, Chief Financial Officer, Government Relations Officer, Senior Executive and Board Administrator, and administratively, the Chief Audit Officer. The Directors of Administrative Services, Member Services, Enterprise Risk Management, Information Technology, Health Care, and Building Services report to the Deputy Executive Director.

The Retirement Board is searching for an executive with strategic vision dedicated to the mission of public service and to defending defined benefit plans. The Board is seeking a leader who is committed to a “member-first” approach to service and who will lead in alignment with SERS’ mission, vision, and values.

Experience developing and maintaining positive relationships with members, stakeholders and policy makers is important and desired. An executive with relevant operational experience, along with a general knowledge of investments, is an important skill set.

A bachelor’s degree is required (advanced degree preferred). Public sector experience, knowledge of federal and state pension laws, and experience working with boards are preferred.

The Executive Director is required to establish permanent residency in the greater Columbus area or within a reasonable commuting distance of the office. The Executive Director is an exempt position and an “at will” employee. Compensation includes base salary, deferred compensation, retirement benefits (24% annual contribution – 14% employer paid, and 10% employee paid, employee pays no social security) and an attractive benefits package. Relocation assistance is also provided.

For additional information or to apply, please contact Hudepohl & Associates, info@hudepohl.com or (614) 854-7300.

SERS is strongly committed to diversity in the workplace. EOE.