Head of Defined Contribution Investment Only – DCIO

Vanguard

. Set and execute the short- and long-term strategy for the DCIO business .

Posted 10/26/2026full-timeUnited StatesLeadWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates deep expertise in defined contribution asset management and investment solutions, with a strong ability to lead complex client relationships and influence key stakeholders. Proven track record in strategic thinking, people leadership, and navigating the retirement regulatory environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Defined Contribution Asset ManagementInvestment-Only Retirement SolutionsStrategic ThinkingPeople LeadershipRetirement Regulatory Environment

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Capital Markets KnowledgePortfolio ConstructionManager Selection and OversightDefined Contribution Investment VehiclesBusiness Strategy ExecutionClient Relationship ManagementRisk MitigationFinancial ManagementPerformance MeasurementNegotiation

Soft Skills

Executive CommunicationPresentation SkillsProblem-SolvingInfluencing Without AuthorityTeam Building

Certifications & Qualifications

FINRA Series 7FINRA Series 63FINRA Series 24

Industry Keywords

Defined ContributionRetirement SolutionsAsset ManagementFiduciary ConsiderationsERISA Compliance

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Set and execute the short- and long-term strategy for the DCIO business
Grow, lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing team; establish outcomes, strengthen succession and capability building, and foster an inclusive culture
Own the relationship strategy and service model for complex defined contribution relationships
Build partnerships with plan sponsors, investment consultants, investment committees, recordkeepers, trustees, and other key decision-makers
Lead investment-focused business reviews and strategic conversations on client objectives, market developments, portfolio strategy, product performance, plan design, participant outcomes, and emerging needs
Expand appropriate use of Vanguard’s defined contribution investment capabilities, including mutual funds, collective investment trusts, target-date strategies, model portfolios, and other investment solutions
Identify and mitigate relationship, service, operational, and retention risks; resolve complex client issues
Partner across investments, sales, product, operations, service, advice, legal, risk, and compliance to deliver coordinated client outcomes
Translate client, consultant, competitive, regulatory, and market insights into business priorities, service enhancements, product opportunities, and thought leadership
Contribute to business planning, resource and budget decisions, performance measurement, and financial management
Represent Vanguard externally with senior clients, consultants, industry partners, and forums

Requirements

What you’ll need

Deep expertise in defined contribution asset management, investment-only retirement solutions, or a closely related financial services field
Demonstrated success leading complex defined contribution client relationships and influencing plan sponsors, investment committees, consultants, and executive-level stakeholders
Strong knowledge of capital markets, portfolio construction, manager selection and oversight, and defined contribution investment vehicles, including mutual funds and collective investment trusts
Record of developing and executing business strategy, strengthening retention, identifying responsible growth opportunities, and leading through changing client and market conditions
Exceptional strategic thinking, commercial judgment, executive communication, presentation, negotiation, and problem-solving capabilities
Ability to lead across a highly matrixed organization and influence outcomes without direct authority
Proven people leadership, including building inclusive teams, developing talent, setting high standards, and driving measurable outcomes
Working knowledge of the retirement regulatory environment, including ERISA and fiduciary considerations relevant to defined contribution clients
Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in defined contribution investments, retirement, asset management, or a related field, including significant people leadership experience
Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience
Active FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 registrations required
Active FINRA Series 24 registration required
Vanguard is not offering visa sponsorship for this position
Travel is required based on client and business needs

Benefits

Comp & perks

Hybrid working model with enhanced flexibility, in-person learning, collaboration, and connection
Professional development and learning opportunities
Inclusive, collaborative culture
Travel based on client and business needs