SPARK Names New Executive Director

The SPARK Institute Inc. appointed a new executive director, Timothy (Tim) Rouse.

In his new role, Rouse will represent the SPARK Institute’s mission on behalf of its members to a wide range of industry professionals and key constituencies such as regulators, legislators and media. He will also assume day-to-day responsibilities for managing the organization.

“When I think of the 83 million American workers that SPARK and its member organizations represent, I know how critical SPARK’s voice is to shaping retirement policy in Washington. It is our obligation to our fellow Americans to do all that we can to help fulfill their dreams of a secure retirement. So I am honored to be able to help lead SPARK in this effort,” says Rouse.

Rouse has more than 30 years of financial service experience, primarily in the retirement plan industry. His previous retirement experience includes extensive sales and revenue growth responsibilities, analyzing and shaping legislative proposals that included direct efforts associated with educating and lobbying policymakers. Prior to joining SPARK as executive director, Rouse worked at Voya Financial Services, Fidelity Investments, ICMA Retirement Corporation and Vanguard.

“Tim brings a tremendous amount of experience, energy and, most importantly, a passion for our goal to shape national retirement policy by providing research, education and comments on pending matters related to helping millions of Americans enjoy a secure retirement,” says Joseph Ready, president of The SPARK Institute. “The Governing Board members of SPARK are excited to have Tim in the executive director role and are confident that he will continue the rich tradition at SPARK to help millions of Americans achieve retirement security through the use of workplace retirement plans.”