Tricky Death Issues

Barbara Clough is a Vice President at Blue Ridge Associates. Barbara has a deep understanding of the complexities involved in ESOP administration, her technical expertise includes navigating tricky administration and compliance issues. As an ERISA expert, she ensures adherence to Code Section compliance and provides strategic guidance to clients on plan design, legal matters, and IRS & DOL inquiries.

Accolades include: past Chairwoman of the Administration Advisory Committee, frequent speaker, author, Executive Committee member of the ESOP Association’s Public Policy Council and Vice President of Advocacy for the ESOP Association’s New England Chapter.

Rita Tucker serves as an ESOP Manager at Blue Ridge Associates, bringing in over two decades of expertise in accounting, ESOP accounting, and administration. With a career spanning more than 20 years in the ESOP space, Rita has established herself as a seasoned professional and a trusted leader in employee ownership.
Prior to joining Blue Ridge, Rita dedicated over 22 years to an ESOP-owned company, where she progressed from Corporate Accounting Manager to a specialized role focused on ESOP administration and education. During her tenure, she also served as an internal Trustee, further solidifying her deep understanding of ESOP governance and fiduciary responsibilities. Most recently, Rita held the position of Chapter Director at The ESOP Association, where she oversaw programming, development, and engagement for five regional chapters, contributing to the growth and success of ESOP education and advocacy across the organization.
Rita's extensive background in both corporate and nonprofit ESOP settings, combined with her commitment to employee ownership education, positions her as a valuable asset to the Blue Ridge team and a passionate advocate for the ESOP community.