Distributing Private Markets in DC Plans: Building Access at Scale
Space is limited. Don't miss out!
Tuesday, November 18
Summit Rooms 8-9
6700 N Gaylord Rockies Blvd
About this session
As private markets enter defined contribution (DC) plans, distribution is becoming the next major challenge and opportunity. Success depends on collaboration among asset managers, recordkeepers, advisors, and platforms to make access simple, compliant, and scalable.
Joe Smolen of Empower will open the session, followed by a panel discussion with industry leaders on how private markets are being positioned, approved, and distributed within DC plans.
Key these include:
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The evolving platform landscape and recordkeeper readiness
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Advisor education and shifting perceptions of alternatives
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Fiduciary and operational considerations in expanding access
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Partnership models that make distribution efficient and compliant
You will leave with a clear view of how private markets are gaining traction in DC plans and how your firm can play a leading role in this evolution.
Space is limited. Don't miss out!
Meet Our Speaker
Joseph M. Smolen
Joe Smolen is Executive Vice President of Core and Institutional Markets for Empower. In his role, he oversees the core market, which consists of retirement plans in the micro, small, and mid markets, as well as the team that partners with Empower’s institutional recordkeeping clients. Joe is responsible for strategy and development as well as all new business acquisitions plus client satisfaction, retention, and financial results for both business segments.
Joe joined the organization in 1999. During his 25-year tenure, he has held numerous sales and leadership positions. As Vice President of Sales Strategy, he led an initiative to recast the core market’s internal sales strategy, and as Regional Vice President for the western territory, he grew sales 24% a year over 10 years. He has also served as a Pension Consultant and was named National Salesperson of the Year twice.
Joe holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Kansas State University. He is the Vice Chair on the board of the Children’s Diabetes Foundation and the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes and also serves on the SPARK Advisory Board and as Chairman of the SPARK Governing Board. In addition, he is involved with the Tim Tebow Foundation and Habitat for Humanity.
Choose Your Summit Experience
EVENT Registration
Individual Passes
$1,799
Registration Includes:
- Opening Reception
Monday 5-7pm - All Event Sessions
Tuesday 8am-5pm - Breakfast & Lunch
Tuesday - Networking Dinner
Tuesday 6pm
ASCENT Sponsorship
Sponsorship + 2 Passes
$5,000
Sponsorship Includes:
- Brand Visibility
Logo featured on event signage, website, and program materials. - Network Recognition
Align your firm with a curated audience of decision-makers. - Two Full Access Passes
Connect with plan sponsors, asset managers, and innovators shaping the retirement landscape.
APEX Featured Sponsorship
Featured Sponsor + 2 Passes
$10,000
Sponsor the Opening Reception, Lunch, or Networking Dinner
(only 2 per event)
- Premium Brand Placement
Prominent logo visibility on signage, website, and event materials. - Stage Recognition
Opportunity to deliver Welcome Remarks at your sponsored event. - Exclusive Positioning
Stand out as a featured sponsor with only two per event. - Two Full Access Passes
Priority access to sessions and networking opportunities
Attendees are responsible for booking their own travel & lodging.
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
Nestled at the edge of Colorado’s Front Range, the Gaylord Rockies Resort offers a scenic alpine retreat with breathtaking mountain views. Conveniently located just minutes from the airport and close to Denver’s top attractions, it’s the perfect setting for your Next Summit experience. Stay on-site with fellow attendees and enjoy unparalleled networking, exceptional dining, a relaxing spa, and a water park—all just steps away from the event’s meeting spaces.
Book Your Hotel Today for Best Rates
Attendees are responsible for their own travel & lodging for this event.
