Meet the Experts: Whitney Kieschnick

1. What do you find most unique about working at October Three?

One of the most unique aspects of working at October Three is its size. We maintain a close-knit environment while benefiting from exceptional resources with deep actuarial and administration expertise. We’re large enough to provide sophisticated solutions, yet small enough to deliver highly personalized service to our clients. That balance fosters strong, lasting client relationships and creates a real sense of pride in the work we do.

2. How did you get into this industry?

I graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in Risk Management and Insurance in 2002. I took an Employee Benefits class, which covered topics including 401(k) plans, group life and health plans, and pensions. That class caught my attention and was the springboard for my career! I entered the pension administration field in my first job out of college, and it’s been a journey filled with education and passion for serving clients and their participants. Over the past 23 years, I’ve worked with clients spanning in size from small private companies to Fortune 500 organizations.

3. What's one project or achievement you're particularly proud of?

I’m honored to lead a wonderful team of humble, hungry, and smart individuals. It’s deeply fulfilling to foster their collaboration and witness the successes that follow. One recent achievement I’m especially proud of is the automation of our monthly compliance reporting, including letters to participants approaching their normal retirement date, letters to vested terminated participants, and Suspension of Benefits Notices. This effort ensures we consistently meet IRS, ERISA, and DOL requirements through a standardized process that can be reliably replicated across all clients.

4. What's one thing you wish others could know about your role?

A significant aspect of my role as the manager of the Benefits Consultant Team is collaboration. One area I particularly value is our partnership with Vitalis through Abelica Global. Building strong relationships, sharing knowledge, and delivering high-quality solutions together has been very rewarding.

5. What's a book, podcast, or other resource you'd recommend to others, and why?

I enjoy listening to The Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett. The guests are fascinating and include CEOs, scientists, therapists, and authors. Many episodes have challenged me, and a few have caused me to dream bigger.

6. What's a skill or hobby you have outside of work? Have you applied any lessons or knowledge from your skills or hobbies in your role at October Three?

One of my favorite hobbies is watching football, especially the Georgia Bulldogs! Football is the ultimate lesson in teamwork, which absolutely carries over to my day-to-day work. It’s all about coordination, collaboration, and communication. High-performing teams, whether on the field or in business, excel when everyone understands their role, trusts their teammates’ strengths, and can call an audible when the original plan needs to change. Success is a team sport!