About Us
[ We have a long history in the retirement business and have been dedicated to
helping executives affect change that drives growth and profitability. ]
Years of Industry Experience
Published Research Reports
Members have access to more than 250 publications completed since RLF’s inception.
Clients Served
Years of Industry Experience
The RLF leadership team brings more than 35 years of industry experience to the table.
Published Research Reports
Members have access to more than 250 publications completed since RLF’s inception.
Clients Served
Our Story
The history of the RLF dates back to 2001 when CEB launched the Retirement Services Roundtable: a best practices research service targeted at the top recordkeepers and DCIO firms. In 2017, as CEB merged with Gartner, a team from CEB acquired the RSR and formed the Retirement Leadership Forum.
Since the acquisition, we’ve expanded the service offering and branched into new areas of the retirement business while continuing to focus on creating high quality research and events that were the hallmark of CEB. Today, RLF counts many of the top recordkeepers, asset managers, consultants, and advisors among its members.
Who We Are
Wallace Blankenbaker
Founder and Managing Partner
Wallace leverages his more than 20 years in the retirement business to deliver highly impactful research and best-in-class member events. He lives in McLean, VA with his wife, two teenage sons, and Labrador Retriever. When not thinking about the future of the retirement business, he enjoys being outside with his family fishing, playing golf, or just sitting on the beach.
Education:
- B.S. University of Virginia
- MBA University of Virginia
Previous Work Experience:
- Principal at CEB (now Gartner)
- Senior Product Manager at FOLIOfn
- Principal Consultant at AMS (now CGI)
Suzanne Raffaele
Co-Founder and Partner
With a background in research and first-hand experience at a recordkeeper, Suzanne brings a unique perspective and more than 15 years of industry experience to the RLF membership. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband (Jeff), young daughter and son (Emilia and Graham), and golden retriever (Bear). Outside of work, Suzanne enjoys weekends at the Jersey shore, volunteering with Therapy Dogs International, and is an avid lacrosse fan.
Education:
- B.S. Bucknell University
- Bucknell Women’s Lacrosse Team
Previous Work Experience:
- Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch
- Practice Lead at CEB (now Gartner)
- Equity Research Associate at Janney Montgomery Scott
Sara Tershel
Marketing and Client Experience Manager
Sara uses her background in client services and operations to create a seamless experience for RLF members. She is a new Denver resident who loves to be outside hiking and camping, to travel and explore new places, and to dog sit until she adopts her own.
Education:
- B.S. Miami University
Previous Work Experience:
- Clinic and Health Team Specialist at Peace Corps
- Operations Specialist at CEB (now Gartner)
- Research Coordinator at CEB (now Gartner)