In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we are excited to feature Joe Ledgerwood, Director of Investment Manager Research, and Britt Vriesman, Manager Research Consultant with RVK, Inc. Delve deep into the intricacies of manager research as Joe and Britt illuminate RVK’s sophisticated approach to helping their client’s meet their diverse investment objectives and goals. RVK, distinguished as one of the largest fully independent and employee-owned investment consulting firms in the world, is renowned for its bespoke strategic investment advice, catering to a varied clientele including corporate and public retirement systems, Taft-Hartley funds, nonprofit organizations, operating funds, and high-net-worth individuals/families.RVK's approach to investment consulting is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of the market and a client-centric perspective. This episode will offer an in-depth look at how RVK employs rigorous analytical methods and innovative thinking in manager research. Joe and Britt will discuss how RVK’s team diligently evaluates investment opportunities, verifying that each recommendation aligns not only with market trends but also with the unique needs and risk profiles of their clients. They emphasize the firm's commitment to delivering actionable, forward-thinking advice that navigates the complexities of the financial markets.Further emphasizing RVK’s excellence in manager research, Joe and Britt share insights into their process of identifying, assessing, and recommending investment managers. They discuss the importance of a multi-dimensional evaluation approach that includes quantitative analysis, qualitative assessment, and ongoing monitoring. This episode provides you with a rare glimpse into the strategic considerations and meticulous diligence that underpin RVK's recommendations.Throughout the conversation, Joe and Britt also enhance our audience’s understanding of investment strategies, concepts, issues, and their consequences as they relate to the asset management industry. Join us in an engaging conversation about inclusion in the finance industry, particularly focusing on accommodating persons with disabilities.Special Note: This episode was uniquely recorded at RVK's offices in Portland, Oregon, to ensure an accessible and comfortable environment for Britt, a person with disabilities. This act underscores our commitment to inclusivity and diversity in our podcast and beyond, mirroring RVK's own values of creating an inclusive and empowering workspace for all individuals.Coalition Greenwich Disclosure: Coalition Greenwich issued the award on April 25, 2023, based on their February through November 2022 study. No direct or indirect compensation has been paid by RVK in connection with obtaining or using this award.

In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we welcome Brian Crawford, Director of Investments at the John Templeton Foundation. More than three decades after its creation, the John Templeton Foundation continues to manifest the character of its founder, Sir John Templeton, who passed away in 2008. He began his rise on Wall Street in 1937 and proved over many decades that he was one of the greatest global stock pickers of the century. Over the course of this informative and insightful episode, Brian Crawford channels Templeton’s investment and philanthropic philosophy for our audience, as he navigates the Foundation’s mission both philanthropically and financially.Brian Crawford sheds light on how the Foundation's investment strategies align with its core philosophy and mission. Learn about the Foundation's global reach and how its investments are making a difference in various fields such as science, character, and human potential. Along the way, Brian shares valuable insights for those looking to venture into the world of investments with a purpose as he navigates through discussions on asset allocation, manager research, and risk management.Brian Crawford is a veteran in the world of investments, with a career dedicated to not only growing assets but also making a positive impact on society. His role at the John Templeton Foundation places him at the forefront of marrying financial acumen with philanthropic goals. Join us as we dive deep into the world of investments, philanthropy, and the unique approach of the John Templeton Foundation in leveraging financial strategies for global betterment. Love and investing are critical for human flourishing. The connection between the two might not be evident at first. But both are rooted in a recognition of the inherent value of all people.

In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we welcome Xinxin Liu, Senior Research Analyst for Private Equity and Credit with AndCo Consulting. AndCo Consulting is an independent, SEC registered institutional investment consulting firm headquartered in Winter Park, Florida. As of December 2022, they are responsible for nearly $91 billion in assets under advisement, advising hundreds of institutional clients across the United States, Bermuda, and Canada.In her role, Xinxin focuses on private equity and private debt investment research, including the servicing of institutional client relationships. Previously, she held a variety of roles with Wells Fargo for nearly twelve years as an analyst, strategist, and consultant. With responsibilities ranging from manager research focusing on private real assets (real estate, infrastructure, and natural resources) and REITs to leading the sourcing and due diligence of Private Equity, Private Debt, and Private Real Asset funds, Xinxin has an extensive background in manager research and selection which she shares over the course of our informative and insightful discussion.Dive deep with us into the nuances of investment strategies, manager selection, and market analysis. Along the way, we explore the transformative landscape of private equity and credit, venture capital, and more. Don’t miss this must-listen episode for anyone eager to gain knowledge about investment manager research and private market solutions.Disclosure:This material is the product of Dakota live! Podcast. It is being provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be reproduced and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular course of action and additionally is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon, for legal advice. The opinions expressed herein are solely those of the speakers and may not represent the firm views of AndCo Consulting, LLC. Certain information is based on sources and data believed to be reliable, but AndCo cannot guarantee the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information. This presentation does not cover all risks or underlying factors associated with the referenced asset classes. Potential investors should thoroughly review all investment risk factors prior to investing. Please consult with your investment advisor.The referenced Greenwich Award is not indicative of AndCo’s future performance. These awards or any other rankings and/or recognition by unaffiliated rating services and/or publications should not be construed as a guarantee that a client will experience a certain level of results or satisfaction if they invest with AndCo, nor should it be construed as a current or past endorsement by any of our clients. AndCo did not pay a fee to participate in this award survey.AndCo Consulting is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration as an investment adviser does not constitute an endorsement for the firm by securities regulators nor does it indicate that the adviser has attained a particular level of skill or ability. AndCo Consulting and Dakota are not affiliated entities.

In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we are thrilled to welcome Adam Jordan, Director of Investments and Chief Compliance Officer at Paul Ried Financial Group, LLC. As Director of Investments, Adam’s responsibilities include developing, implementing, and monitoring client portfolios. This includes designing the overall asset allocation strategies, conducting in-depth market analysis, investment manager due diligence, as well as performing trading activities. Also, as Chief Compliance Officer, Adam carries out supervisory and compliance responsibilities.Nestled in the heart of Washington, Paul Ried Financial Group has been a beacon of financial strategy, trust, and innovation for its clients. Paul Ried Financial Group specializes in pre- and post-retirement planning for corporate executives, managers, and engineers. The firm integrates investment management, estate strategies, and income-design for clients with total advisory assets of approximately $1 billion.In our conversation, we delve deep into Adam’s career journey, discussing the intricacies of managing client portfolios, the challenges and rewards of today's financial and regulatory climate, and the evolving landscape of asset management and manager research. Furthermore, we explore the unique strategies and philosophies that have positioned Paul Ried Financial Group as a leading RIA in the Pacific Northwest.Whether you're an investor, a finance professional, or simply curious about the world of RIAs and investments, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge, straight from the source. Join us for this exclusive interview and glean insights that could reshape how you think about your own financial journey.

In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we are thrilled to welcome Dana Johns, Head of Private Equity for the New Jersey Division of Investment. The Division is one of the largest U.S. pension fund managers in the United States. In this insightful and informative conversation, Dana decodes the intricacies of manager research and the importance of a diverse perspective. This perspective comes alive with Dana’s discussion on New Jersey’s Emerging Managers program, which is centered around a platform that will source, conduct due diligence on, invest in, and oversee allocations to emerging managers. Much like curating art, choosing the right private equity managers requires discernment and understanding of potential. You're looking for that unique piece of art or asset manager that stands out and has intrinsic value, even if others haven't recognized it yet. Along the way, we explore the transformative landscape of private equity, venture capital, and more.Join us for an enriching hour filled with personal stories, expert insights, and a shared vision for a more inclusive future in private markets. This episode isn't just about highlighting challenges—it's about celebrating the progress made and forging a path forward.

On the latest episode of Dakota Live!, dive deep with our guest, Jason Chang - the Managing Director and Head of External Equities at Lockheed Martin Investment Management Company. With nearly two decades in manager research, Jason unpacks his unique methodologies for manager sourcing, due diligence, and selection. He also provides a glimpse into the collective thought process behind their research decisions. This episode is more than just an interview; it's an exploration into Jason's professional journey and how it has reshaped his perspective on the investment industry. In a financial world full of clamor, discover how a scientific approach can fine-tune your perspective and filter out market distractions. Join us as we delve into the science of risk management and decision-making with Jason and his colleagues at Lockheed Martin.

Join us as Taylor Jackson, Investment Director with Verger Capital Management, delves deep into the intricacies of manager research in this interesting and informative discussion. Verger Capital Management is an SEC registered investment adviser providing Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) services to a select group of non-profit institutions. Verger’s mission is to invest in the lives of others, which has led the firm to exclusively serve clients focused on improving lives and providing opportunity. The Verger team’s unique non-profit heritage offers a deep understanding of this segment’s needs, as well as the ability to benefit from the scale and purchasing power of approximately $2.6 billion in assets under management. Verger was founded in 2014 and was created out of the Wake Forest University Office of Investments.Taylor offers insights into the rigorous due diligence processes that Verger employs to identify top-tier investment managers. We discuss the challenges and rewards of private market investing and the crucial role it plays in a diversified portfolio. Throughout the conversation, Taylor sheds light on how Verger balances risk and reward for its clients. Whether you're an investment novice or a seasoned pro, this episode promises to enhance your understanding of the dynamic world of private markets, asset allocation, and manager research.Stay tuned throughout the entire episode as Taylor’s colleague, Inge Smith, Marketing Coordinator for Verger Capital closes our discussion with the firm’s approach to community engagement, partnerships, and developing talent.

Join us as Tracy Cao and Adam Choppin of Xponance discuss the firm’s unique approach to identifying and nurturing up-and-coming investment talent, the challenges, and rewards of supporting emerging managers, and the role of technology and data-driven approaches in shaping manager research decisions. Xponance is a Diverse, Woman-led multi-strategy investment firm founded by Tina Byles Williams in 1996. The firm offers global and non-U.S. equity investment strategies through a multi-manager construct that harnesses the investment edge and focus of entrepreneurial, emerging, and diverse managers. Tracy and Adam guide our audience through Xponance’s proprietary due diligence process and seeding of capacity constrained strategies. Whether you're an investor, a financial enthusiast, or just curious about the discovery of emerging talent in the investment industry, this episode promises a wealth of insights. Along the way, learn more about Xponance's commitment to diversity and inclusion and the importance of supporting emerging managers in the modern financial ecosystem. Tune in and discover what sets Xponance apart in the realm of emerging manager research and advice for aspiring managers and professionals entering the investment world.

Join us as Sean Montesi, Partner with Gerber Taylor, dives deep into the nuances of investment management in this interesting and informative discussion. Gerber Taylor is a multi-asset class investment management firm with a heritage rooted in deep fundamental investment research. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, Gerber Taylor has $7 billion in assets under management as of June 2023 and an additional $6 billion in assets under advisement as of December 2022. Sean sheds light on the evolution of Gerber Taylor’s investment strategies, offering a closer look at their diversified asset class allocation process that leads to them to a rigorous manager research and selection process. Along the way, Sean shares how the firm’s research and monitoring provide the framework to know when to stay the course or to make a change when an investment has sufficiently deviated from the underlying thesis. Memphis isn't just the home of blues, BBQ, and Elvis; it's also a burgeoning hub for innovative finance. Join the discussion on the evolving financial landscape with one of Tennessee’s leading investors.

In this episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome R.J. Smolenski, Managing Director of Investment Research at Pitcairn. Based in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, Pitcairn stands as a beacon in the multi-family office space, steering the financial course for over 125 client families, encompassing around 500 households throughout the U.S. Their expertise also extends to managing 20 single-family offices, overseeing nearly $7 billion in assets. With a rich legacy spanning two decades at the firm, R.J. Smolenski joins us to unravel the nuances of Pitcairn's manager research and selection methodology. Delve deep with us as R.J. delineates the evolutionary journey of their approach, characterized by meticulous planning and incremental adaptations over the years. This conversation promises to shed light on the sophisticated evolution of Pitcairn's investment strategies, offering a closer look at their diversified asset class allocations. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a richer understanding of Pitcairn's success story, and the wisdom that has guided their trajectory over the years. Tune in for an episode brimming with insightful narratives and invaluable perspectives.

Narayan Chowdhury, Partner, and Co-Founder of Franklin Park joins Dakota Live! to discuss the company's private market investment and advisory business. Founded twenty years ago, Franklin Park is an SEC-registered private markets investment firm that provides their clients access to private equity, private debt, and venture capital. At Franklin Park, Narayan is responsible for the analysis and evaluation of private equity investment opportunities, monitoring clients’ portfolios and conducting industry research. He is also involved in the development and implementation of Franklin Park’s technology platform, and regularly interacts with clients on investment and portfolio matters. Whether you are interested in learning how to access inefficient areas in private markets, how investment strategies deploy capital to early-stage companies, or the mechanics of private market due diligence, we encourage you to watch and listen to how Narayan and Franklin Park find the answer to the why behind a founder’s motivation.

Sam McFall is a Managing Director of Investments with Mill Creek Capital Advisors. Mill Creek was founded in 2006 to provide customized advice to help clients achieve their financial goals. The firm serves over 300 families and institutions as an independent, fully staffed investment office, managing over $8 billion of assets on their behalf. Sam takes the Dakota Live! team in this special edition episode through Mill Creek’s approach to manager research and selection and what a potential client partnership looks like with their firm. Join us as we come to better understand Mill Creek and their allocation to various asset classes and investment strategies.

Michael Marvelli, Deputy Chief Investment Officer of the UCLA Investment Company joins Dakota Live! to discuss the company's investment strategy, its approach to asset allocation, and investment manager research and selection process. Along the way, Michael walks us through UCLA’s lower middle market (LMM) private equity portfolio from its first LMM commitment in 2016 through today’s investment opportunities. With the increasing availability of dry powder driving activity in the LMM market, Michael walks us through UCLA’s LMM strategy and approach to sourcing investment partners. The UCLA Investment Company provides professional stewardship of investment assets entrusted to The UCLA Foundation for the advancement of UCLA and related charitable purposes. Join us as we come to better understand Michael and his more than twenty-five years of investment and capital markets experience. Whether you are interested in learning about LMM private equity, how endowments are approaching alternative assets, or how UCLA aligns its mission with its investment objectives, I encourage you to watch and listen to how Michael and UCLA uncover new opportunities in this increasingly interesting and challenging area of the market.

Frank Mihail, Chief Investment Officer of the North Dakota Department of Trust Lands joins us to share his experiences over his first year in the role and how he is approaching the strategic investments for the $7 billion sovereign wealth fund. The Land Board, which oversees the North Dakota Department of Trust Lands manages 2.4 million mineral acres with interest in more than 8,600 of the 17,400 producing oil and gas wells in the state. The Land Board manages 13 permanent education trusts, including the Common Schools Trust Fund, the state’s primary education trust fund. Over the last decade the Land Board has distributed more than $1.8 billion to K-12 education. Join the conversation as we explore the dynamic landscape of managing North Dakota’s valuable land and resource assets, and the importance of its mission in giving back to public education. Discover the strategies that drive the decisions behind allocating the state’s resources. In this thought-provoking conversation, we learn about the CIO’s approach to identifying investment opportunities that align with the state’s values and objectives. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the mindset of an investment leader who understands the significance of managing state assets with a forward-thinking perspective. Whether you're interested in investments, land management, or the responsible utilization of resources, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge that will leave you inspired and informed.

Kevin Khang, Head of Active and Alternatives Research and Andy Reed, Head of Investor Behavior at Vanguard sit down to discuss a variety of topics ranging from the fundamentals of behavioral economics to how artificial intelligence is expected to play a role in both research and application. Along the way, Kevin and Andy touch on active and passive management solutions, liquid alternatives, how insights are generated for external value, and how Vanguard sets their priorities and manager research process. The Vanguard Group, Inc. is an American registered investment advisor based in Malvern, Pennsylvania, with approximately $7.7 trillion in global assets under management, as of April 2023. It is the largest provider of mutual funds and the second-largest provider of exchange-traded funds in the world. Join us in this interesting and insightful conversation to help you better understand the gap between what investors should do and what they actually do.

Nisha Atre of Old City Investment Partners shares her over twenty years of asset allocation and sales experience in this informative discussion on how she has navigated her successful career in asset management.  Along the way, Nisha guides our listeners through Old City’s approach to offering specialized investment solutions for their clients.  Founded in 2006, Old City identifies high-quality alternative investment sponsors for a growing investor base of families and institutions. Nisha shares her experiences distributing alternatives and how specialist strategies fit into a broader asset allocation model. Join Nisha and Robert as they discuss changes in the industry, and how best to position your investment strategies with investors for the years ahead.

Melvin Lindsey, CFA, Founder and Managing Partner of the Nile Capital Group joins us on the Dakota Live! Podcast to share his more than thirty years of experience in business development and manager selection. Mel shares advice and the attributes he and his team look to identify when investing in asset management businesses. Throughout this informative conversation, Mel shares the approach he developed from his success at Julius Baer Investment Management through the formation and launch of Nile Capital nearly a decade ago. By relying on the pillars of talent, innovation, diversity, economies of scale, and speed, which Mel and his colleagues describe as the TIDES, Nile Capital continues to source and stake innovative performance-driven asset management companies. Be sure to catch this masterclass in investment sales and emerging manager development.

Doug Hanly, Chief Investment Officer for the Louisiana State Police Retirement System (LSPRS) joins us at Dakota Live! to take us through his experience as the first CIO of the LSPRS. The Louisiana State Police Retirement System is a qualified pension and retirement plan created to provide retirement benefits for Louisiana state police officers and their beneficiaries. Currently, the LSPRS serves over 1,000 active members and over 1200 retired/survivor members. With over $1 billion in assets, LSPRS’ primary goal is to safeguard and manage the funds it holds in trust so that future benefits are guaranteed and protected. Over the course of our conversation, Doug shares how virtues such as courage, strength of voice, and vulnerability have benefited him as it relates to career and investment decisions. Along the way, Doug shares the building blocks he looks for when looking for asset managers as part of his manager research process.

Venus Phillips, Managing Director of the Kresge Foundation joins us at Dakota Live! to share her insights and experience in manager selection and asset allocation. Over the course of our conversation, Venus takes us on her career journey and shares with us those who have influenced over the years. The Kresge Foundation is a philanthropic private foundation with over $4 billion in assets. The foundation works to expand opportunities in America's cities through grantmaking and investing in arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and community development efforts. Venus is responsible for evaluating investment opportunities and investment managers across all asset classes and geographies for the foundation’s endowment. Join us as Venus shares what the power of authentic leadership means to her and the importance of mission-oriented work. Be sure to stay tuned until the end of the conversation, where Venus answers questions and shares advice to students at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

Gildas Quinquis, Chief Investment Officer for the Boston-based Windrose Advisors, takes us through his nearly thirty-year career in investment management, describing how he approaches the current landscape for his clients and where he is finding areas of opportunity. Gildas oversees investment strategy, asset allocation, and manager selection at this independent boutique wealth management firm that delivers sophisticated, customized investment advice to a select group of families, foundations, and endowments. Founded in 2009 by Boston-area entrepreneurs and experienced institutional investment professionals, the firm has grown to approximately $4 billion in assets under advisement. Gildas shares his team’s process to manager sourcing, due diligence, selection, and how they consider investment decisions. Watch and listen as Gildas shares his professional mission that helps him foster an environment of innovation and growth.

Adam Landau is a Partner and Co-Market Leader for the Pennsylvania office of Cerity Partners. He is also a member of the firm's Investment Committee. Cerity Partners LLC is a Registered Investment Advisor serving high-net-worth individuals and their families, businesses and their employees, and nonprofit organizations with approximately $62 billion in assets.In this special edition episode, Adam takes the Dakota Live! team through Cerity's approach to risk management, the firm’s manager research and underwriting process, and what a potential client partnership looks like with their firm. Join us as we come to better understand Cerity Partners and their allocation to various asset classes and investment strategies in the changing intermediary landscape.

William Yung, Partner, and Director of Private Markets at Angeles Investments takes us on his career journey from wealth management to investment manager research for one of the financial industry’s innovative leaders in OCIO and investment consulting. With over seventeen years of investment experience, William is responsible for conducting research in private capital and real asset strategies for the firm. Join us as William takes our listeners through the firm’s approach to manager research and selection. Along the way, we learn more about William and the personal and professional impact of his family’s journey to the United States from China. Globally recognized for their positive impact on their clients and industry, Angeles Investments is a multi-asset investment firm, providing sophisticated, customized investment solutions to institutional and private wealth clients. Founded in 2001, the firm oversees approximately $6.4 billion in discretionary relationships, as well as $33.3 billion in consulting relationships.  Angeles is an independent, 100% employee-owned firm with over 40% of clients being with the firm for more than 10 years. A great achievement in today’s industry. Tune in as we come to better understand how this unique organization approaches investment opportunities.

Laura Esposito of Rockefeller Capital Management shares her nearly twenty-five years of client service and sales experience in this informative discussion on how she has navigated her successful career in asset management.  Along the way, Laura guides our listeners through the firm’s approach to providing service and investment solutions for their clients regardless of market conditions.  Rockefeller Capital Management was established in 2018 as a leading independent financial advisory firm. Originally founded in 1882 as the family office of John D. Rockefeller, the firm has evolved to offer strategic advice to ultra- and high-net-worth individuals and families, institutions, and corporations.  The firm is responsible for over $100 billion in client assets, as of March 31, 2023, and has over 1100 employees in 44 locations across the United States and London. Join us in the room as we come to better understand how this historic organization approaches investment opportunities.

Angela Miller-May, Chief Investment Officer for the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund joins us at Dakota Live! for a special discussion on how she found her start in the investment management industry and what lessons she has carried forward now leading the $49.5 billion pension fund that services a membership of over 178,000 active members, 262,000 inactive members, 138,000 retired members and over 3,000 employers for Illinois. In our discussion Angela provides insight into strategic portfolio construction, manager selection and due diligence, and how she leads a team of investment professionals to meet IMRF’s investment goals. Tune into this insightful and informative episode and learn why Angela continues to be recognized by the industry as one of its top investors.

Joe Marenda, Partner, and Head of Digital Assets Investing with Cambridge Associates shares his experience through this masterclass on blockchain technology and digital assets investing. Joe specializes in discovering and diligencing blockchain-related funds across all fund formats.  He also serves as the Head of the firm’s San Francisco office.  Joe contributes to firm research on alternative assets in portfolios and crypto-blockchain more broadly. Join us in this fascinating and informative episode as Joe takes us through his experience in building the first blockchain portfolio for a Cambridge client beginning in 2018 and how they approached the firm’s first due diligence on a crypto fund in 2017. Cambridge is a privately held global investment firm providing advisory and investment solutions to institutional investors, including foundations and endowments, pensions, private families, and corporate and government entities.  Founded 50 years ago, the firm has eleven offices around the world with over $540 billion in assets under advisement. Learn more about how Joe and his colleagues at Cambridge Associates continue to innovate for their clients in the exciting world of blockchain technology. 

Greg Leonberger is the Director of Research for Marquette Associates. Greg is responsible for creating the firm’s capital markets research and directing the investment strategies and policy. He also serves as the chair of the investment committee. A partner of the employee-owned firm, Greg has been with the company since 2008. Greg joins us at Dakota Live! to take us through Marquette Associates’ manager research process and how to approach the firm and their clients with private markets through fixed income investments and what they look for in asset management partners. Marquette was founded thirty-seven years ago with the sole objective of providing investment consulting at the highest caliber of client service. As of March 31, 2023, the firm is advising over $351 billion in assets with over 400 clients and 135 employees. Join us to learn how the firm’s approach to client service has made Marquette Associates so successful over the years. 

Kate Pizzi, Partner and Senior Consultant of Fiducient Advisors joins us at Dakota Live! to take us through her experience from actuary to portfolio manager to investment consultant and what she has learned over the years to help her deliver success for clients and colleagues. Kate services institutional clients by providing advice and counsel on all areas of fund oversight including investment policy development, asset allocation, manager research, portfolio structure, rebalancing, and performance monitoring. Fiducient Advisors is a full-service asset advisory business founded in 1995. With over 200 professionals and $230 billion in assets under advisement (as of June 30, 2022), Fiducient is one of the premier consultancy businesses in the US with providing investment consulting services to retirement plans, endowments and foundations, private clients, and financial institutions. Tune in to this informative and wide-ranging discussion with one of the leading investment consultants in the financial services industry.

Chenae Edwards, Partner with NEPC, LLC shares her investment consulting experience as she discusses the NEPC manager research process, how clients are maneuvering through the current market environment, and her experience in working with non-profit institutions. NEPC is one of the industry’s largest independent, full-service investment consulting firms, serving more than 400 clients with over $1.4 trillion in assets under advisement. With over 350 employees and over 400 clients across channel, NEPC’s five distinct practices and eight regional offices make it one of the more important consultants in the industry. Learn more about what has made NEPC so successful over the years, and how Chenae and her colleagues research and select their investment management partners.

Andy Spellar, Chief Investment Officer for the Fairfax County Employees' Retirement System shares his journey over his two decades for the $5.0 billion Plan located in the suburbs of Washington, DC.  Andy started with Fairfax County in June 1998 as a Senior Investment Manager and has been an important aspect of the Plan’s innovative and insightful approach to asset allocation and manager selection over his successful career. Andy shares his process on manager sourcing, due diligence, selection, and how he and his team consider asset allocation decisions. Watch and listen to this insightful episode where Andy shares many of the attributes that have helped him stay in the fairway and continue to deliver for Fairfax County.

Ernst Knacke, Head of Research at London-based, Shard Capital Partners as well as its subsidiary, LeifBridge Investment Management joins the Dakota Live! Podcast to share his nearly twenty years of experience in manager research and selection. Shard Capital is a leading wealth and asset manager advising over $1.6 billion on behalf of high net worth and institutional clients in both the European and US markets. Ernst shares how he and his colleagues are developing their growing OCIO business through the sourcing of asset managers globally. Ernst in his role as Head of Research, shares how he attempts to minimize the home country bias that permeates through investment portfolios both domestically and abroad. Whether you are a US-based asset manager looking to penetrate the UK/European markets or a UK/European manager looking to penetrate the US market, this is a can’t miss episode.  

Chris Brockmeyer is the Director of Employee Benefit Funds for the Broadway League, the national trade association for the Broadway theatre industry. Join us in this informative and insightful episode as Chris shares how he navigates his role, serving as the Employer Co-Chair on 11 multi-employer pension funds, 6 health funds and 6 annuity/401(k) funds with approximately $9 Billion in assets, covering 140,000 current or future retirees and providing health care coverage for more than 31,000 employees, plus dependents, in the entertainment industry. Chris shares his experience working with both investment consultants and Outsourced CIOs, as well as his work with asset managers across traditional and alternative asset classes. Throughout the conversation, Chris guides us through his philosophy on negotiating and relationship management from the perspective of both unions and employers. If you’re looking to better understand the Taft Hartley landscape, be sure to tune into this episode. 

John Tassone is the Director of Investments for Forbes Family Trust. Forbes Family Trust is a multi-family office serving institutions and single-family offices as an outsourced investment advisor. The firm represents over 250 families and 50 institutions globally. John is senior member of the investment team responsible for manager due diligence and monitoring of both public and private investments, as well as asset allocation, portfolio construction, and risk management for client families. John takes the Dakota Live! team in this special edition episode through Forbes Family Trust’s approach to asset allocation, the firm’s manager research and underwriting process, and what a potential client partnership looks like with their firm. Join us as we come to better understand Forbes Family Trust and their allocation to various asset classes and investment strategies.  

Raz Der-Tavitian, Chief Investment Officer with SLK Private Wealth joins us at Dakota Live! to share his experience as CIO of an independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). SLK Private Wealth is a $1.6 billion RIA based in Los Angeles. Raz walks us through the investment opportunities he and his colleagues are currently evaluating and how to work with SLK as an asset management partner. Raz takes us from his work with Wilshire, leading their hedge fund and liquid alternatives research efforts to his role today as CIO of a newly launched wealth advisor. Along the way, Raz goes deeper into his underwriting process as it relates to investment manager research and selection. Join us in this wide ranging and informative discussion.

Ryan Hicke, Chief Executive Officer of SEI joins us at Dakota Live! to share his journey from intern to the company's CEO. Throughout our conversation, Ryan shares the lessons he's learned from his nearly twenty-five years with SEI and how overcoming his insecurities took him to the highest levels of the company while remaining anchored in what's most important to SEI's culture. SEI is a publicly traded financial services firm delivering technology and investment solutions that connect the financial services industry.  As of December 31, 2022, SEI manages, advises, or administers approximately $1.2 trillion in assets including US$815 billion in assets under administration and US$399 billion in assets under management. Join us as Ryan describes what characteristics SEI looks for in asset management partners and how to think about your business as it relates to your capital. 

Chris Winiarz, Chief Investment Officer of Stable Asset Management shares his journey from the endowment to the family office model through his role today as CIO of an investment firm focused on building strategic partnerships with top performing emerging managers. Chris takes our audience through what Stable looks for in investment partners when considering an allocation. Stable Asset Management backs top performing investment talent to build next generation asset management firms. Stable oversees over $3 billion in assets under management with over $12 billion of aggregate assets across Stable Partnerships. Stable is among the most experienced and largest strategic partners in the asset management space with offices in New York and London. Since its inception Stable has built 27 strategic partnerships across the liquidity spectrum. The Dakota Live! Podcast was excited to host Chris in our Philadelphia studios and learn more about his experience in investing alongside early-stage investment managers. 

William “Bill” Kennedy is the CEO and Chief Investment Officer of RiskBridge Advisors. RiskBridge serves as an Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) firm providing discretionary investment management, custom research solutions, and investment guidance and implementation. RiskBridge primarily serves non-profit endowments and foundations, pensions, financial institutions, family offices, and ultrahigh-net-worth individuals. Bill takes the Dakota Live! team in this special edition episode through RiskBridge’s approach to risk management, the firm’s manager research and underwriting process, and what a potential client partnership looks like with their firm. Join us as we come to better understand RiskBridge and their allocation to various asset classes and investment strategies.   

Will Beck of Wilshire is a Senior Vice President and member of Wilshire’s Traditional Manager Research Group where he focuses on fixed income strategies. After the fastest U.S. Federal Reserve tightening cycle on record, fixed income markets are the focus of asset allocation conversations across the investment landscape. Join us as Will takes us through the current fixed income environment and where he and his colleagues at Wilshire are finding opportunity. In addition to Will’s responsibilities in identifying, researching, and monitoring fixed income managers, Will is also a rotating member of the Wilshire Investment Committee. He is also a portfolio manager on Wilshire’s active fixed income products and a senior member of the consulting team for the firm’s clients. Will has been with Wilshire for more than 13 years, covering more than 100 unique strategies and representing more than $50 billion of client assets. The Dakota Live! Podcast was thrilled to discuss the fixed income markets with veteran allocator, Will Beck in this timely and informative conversation.

Aoifinn Devitt, Chief Investment Officer at Moneta, and founder and creator of The Fiftyfaces Podcast tells us her story from corporate law to being named the first female Chief Investment Officer of the Moneta Group, a US-based RIA with over $30 bn in investments.  Aoifinn is a true modern day renaissance woman, achieving success across multiple disciplines from education to investments to long-distance running, all while creating a central resource of innovative and creative content with her podcast platform. Watch and listen to this insightful and inspiring episode as Aoifinn shares the work she has done with institutional investors for over 20 years, as a consultant and an advisor, across the US, Europe, and Asia. It’s Women’s History Month, and the Dakota Live! Podcast was thrilled to celebrate the vital role of women in American history and in the financial services industry with Aoifinn Devitt.  

Mark Steed, Chief Investment Officer for the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System shares his journey from an intern to the Plan’s CIO. The Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System provides a uniform, consistent and equitable statewide retirement program for Arizona’s public safety personnel. PSPRS provides retirement benefits and programs to nearly 60,000 active members, retired members and surviving beneficiaries, and to more than 300 employer groups (municipalities, agencies, and districts) throughout the state. Mark has played an instrumental role in transforming the Plan’s $17 billion in investments from a traditional, stock-heavy portfolio to a modern, highly diversified set of investments built to withstand market volatility while delivering significant returns. Mark shares his approach to manager sourcing, due diligence, selection, and how he and his team consider asset allocation decisions. Watch and listen to this special episode where Mark shares his personal and professional mission that helps him think differently about the investment industry.

Carolyn Patton, Head of Private Market Client Solutions at TIFF Investment Management shares how their business approaches private market assets on behalf of their clients. TIFF is a leading asset management firm dedicated to delivering comprehensive OCIO and private equity investment solutions to primarily endowments, foundations, and other charitable organizations. As of June 30, 2022, TIFF manages approximately $8 billion on behalf of their members. Looking at current market conditions in the context of the firm’s outlook, Carolyn walks our audience through the diversification benefits of private markets as part of an OCIO solution. Carolyn shares TIFF’s approach to manager sourcing, due diligence, selection, and what areas of the private market universe TIFF is focused. Throughout the conversation, Carolyn expands on TIFF’s broader initiatives around diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability. Join Carolyn in this informative and interactive conversation on what matters when working with institutional OCIO relationships.  

York Lo is the Head of Alternative Product and LLCs at John Hancock Investment Management where he has been a key member of the team responsible for manager selection and oversight, product development and management for global fund platforms with assets more than US$200 billion. York has launched products across structure, asset class, and style which has contributed significantly to the firm’s growth. Join York as he guides us through John Hancock Investment Management's business while sharing his passion for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our industry and beyond.  

Matt DeAngelo, Deputy Chief Investment Officer of Drexel University’s Endowment shares how he and his colleagues evaluate asset managers, approach due diligence meetings, and consider allocation decisions in both traditional and alternative assets.  In 2021, Drexel University’s endowment surpassed $1 billion for the first time, increasing Drexel’s ability to support and expand its academic and research goals for current and future generations. Matt discusses the steps Drexel University took to reach this successful milestone.  Join Matt as he takes you through the Drexel University Endowment model and what drives him in and out of the office.

Greg Stumm of Resolute Investment Managers shares his perspective on the firm’s investment process in the context of its multi-affiliate model. Greg guides our listeners through the sub-advisory market and the growth their firm has experienced over the years. Resolute Investment Managers is a diversified, multi-affiliate asset management platform that partners with more than 30 best-in-class affiliated and independent investment managers across style and strategy.  Join Greg as he takes us through his experience in building and developing manager and client relationships through the lens of the multi-affiliate model.

Russ Kamp of Ryan ALM shares his more than forty years of investment advisory experience with US plan sponsors as he discusses the current pension landscape and how to position your investment strategies for success. Join Russ for a wide ranging discussion on Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plan management in the context of the current economic environment. The conversation explores the use of alternative strategies and attractiveness of bonds to US pension plans, as well as how recent legislative changes are presenting new opportunities for allocators and investment managers alike. If your New Year's resolutions include a more effective sales strategy for US pension plans, be sure to listen to this insightful and informative conversation with one of the industry's leading experts. 

Alyssa Stankiewicz of Morningstar shares her insights into the firm's manager research process and the key pillars of the Morningstar analyst rating. Alyssa guides the audience through the firm's approach to researching best practices in sustainable investing, and their efforts to improve transparency across the U.S. sustainable funds landscape for investors. Morningstar is a publicly traded financial services firm providing a variety of investment research and investment management solutions. Their research and recommendations in evaluating asset managers and funds are some of the most influential in the asset management industry. Join Alyssa as she shares her journey in this informative and interesting conversation.

Alan Spatrick shares his forty-two years of investment consulting experience as he discusses the Meketa manager research process, the changes he's seen in the consultant space over the decades, and his advice for investment sales people and fellow consultants in the context of the investment industry. Meketa Investment Group is an employee-owned full service investment consultant and advisory firm.  Meketa works with clients on a non-discretionary or discretionary (OCIO) basis. With over $1.7 trillion in Assets under Advisement and an additional $100 billion in Private Markets and Real Estate consulting, Meketa has grown into the third largest institutional consultant in the United States by assets. Learn more about what has made Meketa so successful over the years, and how Alan and his colleagues research and select their investment management partners. 

Aldo Vultaggio, Chief Investment Officer at Capstone Financial Advisors, Inc. shares his manager research process, approach to sourcing alternative investments, current investment research focus, and more in this informative conversation on the importance of Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) and Multi-Family Offices. RIA firms have represented the fastest-growing category in the U.S. wealth management market for the past six years. Learn more about why you should not overlook this  channel when prioritizing your business development goals, while discovering successful firms like Capstone Financial Advisors.