Heather Balley
10 Years at AB|30 Years of Experience
Heather Balley is Managing Director of Participant Communications for AB's Defined Contribution business. In this role, she provides defined contribution product content, focused on plan participants, to the firm's Institutional and Retail clients. Balley is also responsible for AB's proprietary research that's focused on plan sponsor and participant behaviors, with special attention to target-date funds, participant engagement and confidence, and financial literacy. She joined AB in 2014 and has over 25 years of experience in financial-services communications and marketing. Prior to joining the firm, Balley held various roles in defined contribution, including positions at PIMCO, Lincoln Financial and Mercer Consulting. She holds a BS in marketing and economics from Lehigh University, and holds FINRA securities registrations 6, 26 and 63. Location: New York
Published Work
Some retirees say they could have planned better for lifetime income—helpful insight for current participants.
Understanding investor differences may help DC plan sponsors improve communications—and outcomes—for more than just the “average” participant.
Confidence is up, but inflation and other worries offer ways to work toward better outcomes.
Plan sponsors can improve participant engagement with relevant, timely topics and ideas.
Plan participant perspectives can differ, and so should how sponsors connect with them.
Most retirees say they’re satisfied with their post-work situation, according to our most recent survey. But knowing why some retirees still struggle-especially with income-can lead sponsors to effective plan options that help participants avoid similar challenges.
Retirement income is the top goal among defined contribution (DC) plan participants. But according to our most recent survey, many participants struggle to find the best way to tap into those savings when the time comes. How can plan sponsors help close the gap?
With COVID-19 challenges lingering and defined contribution (DC) plan participant confidence consistently low, it's time for more plan sponsors to offer financial wellness programs-with topics well beyond retirement.