Alternative Investments, Product Manager

About the role

The Product Manager will lead the development and launch of alternative investment strategies for TIAA's Defined Contribution (DC) client base. This includes launching dedicated alternative products for the DC channel, such as proprietary strategies and third-party partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Develops strategic product plans for alternative investment vehicles, including Collective Investment Trusts (CITs) and other relevant structures, based on financial, regulatory, operational, and market considerations.
• Engages directly with plan sponsors, consultants, and clients for due diligence, client servicing, and new business purposes.
• Collaborates with the Retirement Product team and distribution to ensure alignment on product strategy, positioning, competitive differentiation, and go-to-market execution.
• Coordinates cross-functional teams and manages project timelines for the launch and implementation of new alternative DC products.
• Maintains deep knowledge of DC-specific investment vehicle structures, particularly CITs, and understands regulatory, operational, and plan sponsor requirements.
• Evaluates and identifies product gaps and opportunities, and develops recommendations for organic development or external partnerships to address them.
• Develops and communicates clear and compelling investment rationale and client-facing materials that highlight the role of alternatives within a DC portfolio context.
• Safeguards all products for compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and aligns with TIAA's risk management and governance standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree Required
• Minimum 5+ years of defined contribution or alternative investments product development experience; 7+ years preferred
• Preferred qualifications include 7+ years of defined contribution or alternative investments product development experience, alternative investments product experience, asset management experience, and demonstrated ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders across a matrixed organization