New and Notable ESOP Topics

Kip is a Manager of ESOP Administration at Blue Ridge Associates focused primarily on transaction consulting; including pre-transaction ERISA compliance testing, setting the ESOP benefit level, plan design, and education of companies on how their ESOP works. Kip is a member of the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), American Society of Pension Professionals and Actuaries (ASPPA), the ESOP Association, and a member of The ESOP Association’s Advisory Committee on Administration.

Mark Swanson is a senior manager, benefit plan services, in the Columbus, Ohio office of Crowe LLP. Prior to joining Crowe in 2008 he was with Nationwide Insurance where he held various positions in the office of general counsel and human resources. With 20+ years in the retirement benefits field, his experience covers retirement plan administration, design, consulting, communications, legal and regulatory considerations and retirement benefit strategy. In addition to being an attorney, he holds the professional designations of certified employee benefits specialist (CEBS) and certified pension consultant (CPC).