The new team further underscores ING’s commitment to academic professionals and builds upon more than 40 years of supporting the education market, ING said. The financial services company said it was also forming the new unit to help educators navigate the new 403(b) rules.
“The increased responsibility placed on higher education employers and the growing consolidation among plan providers in the wake of the 403(b) regulations has set the stage for tremendous change in the marketplace,” said Brian Comer, president of public markets for ING U.S. retirement services. “With this new team, ING is elevating its longstanding commitment to higher education institutions by strengthening relationships with existing customers and proactively forging new partnerships.”
The leader of the new team is Kevin Brown, senior vice president, formerly chief counsel and head of external affairs. Working with Brown is Kate Lewis, vice president in charge of new business development in the western half of the country, and Gregg Holgate, vice president in charge of new business development in the eastern half of the country. Supporting Lewis and Holgate will be National Directors Troy Dryer and Dawn Mazzola.
“ING offers a complete package of services to meet the needs of higher education plans, including comprehensive products, participant education, expanded administrative offerings and experienced local financial advisers,” Comer said.
Currently, ING serves more than 1,300 higher education plans with 91,000 participants. It is also a provider for 15 government-sponsored retirement plans offered to state university systems.
