SME Job Description

> Apply Online
> Download SME application [PDF: 85K]

Volunteer title: Subject Matter Expert (SME) or ad-hoc SME
Directed by: Vice-chair, E&E

Being a SME is a rewarding experience! You will work with other dedicated pension professionals to educate the next generation of administrators, consultants and actuaries. As an expert in a particular area/specialty/topic, you will have the chance to share you knowledge and hone your skills. Furthermore, your role as a SME will encourage you to stay current, which is essential in our swiftly changing industry! Being a SME in a national association with over 6,000 members can give you a strong marketing edge. SMEs and ad-hoc SMEs receive ASPPA CE credit each year for their work on the committee.

Expectation for All Volunteers

Support ASPPA’s mission, vision, and values by exhibiting the following behaviors: excellence and competence, collaboration, innovation, respect, accountability and ownership.

Position Summaries:

SME:

Acting in an expert advisory role, this position provides input and support to ASPPA’s Chairs, Vice-chairs, Technical Education Consultants (TECs) and other designated ASPPA staff. The SME is responsible for maintaining up-to-date expertise in a specific subject area in order to participate in evaluating curriculum and program material for consistency with defined learning objectives. SMEs recommend changes and participate in discussion of the depth and breadth of topic coverage in particular exams and credential programs. A SME should anticipate dedicating approximately 25 hours per quarter with a minimum two year commitment.

Ad-hoc SMEs:

Ad-hoc SMEs help out on an “as needed” basis when a SME is temporarily unable to fulfill his/her responsibilities or when the time required to complete a project is more than a single SME can fulfill. Ad-hoc SMEs may be asked to fill in on a variety of topics, therefore having an expertise in one or more specific subjects may not be required. Ad-hoc SMEs, must have a strong general retirement plan background and the knowledge and experience to identify technical errors or omissions. Ad-hoc SMEs receive monthly E&E e-mails and participate in quarterly training calls. Ad-hoc SMEs will not be required to travel to the E&E Committee meetings.

Essential Functions

With regard to assigned subject matter, the SME:

• Participates in the development of learning objectives, program curriculum and texts.

• Monitors curriculum and learning objectives for consistency with the changing legal and business environments, recommending modifications with regard to the depth and breadth of the subject matter coverage as it affects all ASPPA E&E exams and credential programs.

• Evaluates texts, study guides, compendiums, web course materials, and exam questions for consistency with current learning objectives, level of difficulty, and practical application.

• Participates in conference calls with E&E staff and other volunteers quarterly or on an as needed basis.

• Responds to inquiries from E&E staff and other volunteers on an as-needed basis.

• Meets strict turnaround schedules, many of which will be no more than one week.

• Travels to one to two meetings per year.

• Participates in other E&E functions as needed.

Qualifications/Skills and Knowledge Requirements

• Current ASPPA member; up-to-date on all continuing education requirements for any ASPPA designations held by the individual.

• Minimum five (5) years technical retirement plan experience.

• Must demonstrate in-depth technical expertise and a thorough understanding of the practical application of relevant law and formal/informal guidance.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Highly developed interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations. Position continually requires demonstrated poise, tact, and diplomacy.

• Work requires continual attention to detail, ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines.

• Must be able to work in a shifting environment with ability to juggle and prioritize multiple, competing tasks and demands and to seek supervisory assistance as appropriate.

• Ability to make minimum two year commitment to position.

Performance Measures

On an annual basis, a SME will be evaluated by an E&E vice-chair for:

• Demonstration of expertise and ongoing commitment to enhance current knowledge.

• Quality and timeliness of assigned projects.

• Responsiveness to E&E staff and other volunteers.

• Flexibility and adaptability in responding to transition issues and evolution of E&E.

Supplemental Information

A SME will not be responsible for more than two (2) designated topics. SMEs will not be permitted to take ASPPA exams or teach ASPPA courses during their tenure and for one year after their tenure has ended as their work may include coverage of topics and texts directly related to exam development. By submitting an application to be a SME/ad-hoc SME you agree to adhere to the SME/ad-Hoc SME Confidentiality and Nondisclosure policy. You will be required to sign this document before joining E&E

This description is based on E&E management’s current assessment of the requirements and functions of the SME as of the date of this description. It is a general guideline and not an exhaustive list of all of the elements of the position. E&E management retains the right to make adjustments to this description as needed to meet ASPPA’s mission. These changes may include the expansion, modification, or elimination of assigned subject matter topics.

> Apply Online
> Download SME application [PDF: 85K]

Questions?

Email Catherine Williams at cwilliams@asppa.org.