QKA vs. CPFA

I am currently an associate for an RIA in our Retirement Plan Division. I joined the division last year, and  have spent the year "learning by listening". All my energy outisde work on focused on finishing up the CFA.  I recently became a charterholder, and I have the AIF designation as well.

I am extremely confident of my understanding of markets and investments, where I am lacking is understanding ERISA rules, how to design plans to best benefit our clients, how rules affect certain things etc.

I was wondering if anyone here could provide some insight on where I should focus my energies.  I will be working as a 3(38) Investment Manager to plans - would it best to focus my energy on obtaining the QKA?  or would the CPFA better serve me.  Or maybe there is something else I should be focusing on.

I have some insights from my boss - I want to seek out other opinions though - thanks!

I think having the CFA and AIF with confidence in markets and investments will go along way working as a 3(38) Investment Manager.  You need to rely on your TPA partners and other compliance professionals to assist you in your time getting up to speed.  They should be assisting in coming up with suggested plan designs and then you can discuss the how's and why's of their suggestions.  I would be worrying less about the next designation...CPFA or QKA and more speaking to others more experienced in the area, going to seminars and READING.  I think Sal Tripodi's ERISA Outline Books are a good place to start.  The Pension Answers Books are also a great place to go.  I would go to introductory seminars in ERISA - held at local ASPPA or WEB.  Also, constantly refer back to the IRS/ERISA Code and regulations when cited to see what it actually says.

I believe QKA requires two years in the area before you can start working on your designation.  I think there is some logic to the wait and in the interim, you can get start doing some of the things recommended above. 

Just some things to consider...

Those are great thoughts - appreciate the time.  I have good relationships with several good TPA's in the area and I've learned alot from them, its just kinda hit and miss as they have time and questions come up that I'm dealing with.

Does anyone have a link to where some Intro to ERISA webinars would be?  I cannot find anything on ASPPA's website.

You're welcome.  Do you have any local ASPPA chapters in your area or WEB chapters (World Wide Employee Benefits) in your area?  I know those chapters have benefits type boot camp webinars or ERISA basics.  I believe Corbel sponsors some good introductory benefits courses as well.  Sorry - I do not have specific links

ASPPA has some information about webcasts here:

http://www.asppa-net.org/Education/Webcasts