OpenArc Launches Benefits Recordkeeper Search Services
OpenArc Corporate Advisory has announced the expansion of its institutional consulting platform to include independent provider search consulting, giving plan sponsors a single fiduciary partner across retirement, deferred compensation, equity compensation, health savings accounts (HSAs), and broader workplace benefits programs.
The new service builds on OpenArc's established institutional investment fiduciary practice and enables plan sponsors to evaluate, benchmark, and select providers through an objective search process. The firm conducts independent requests for information (RFIs) and requests for proposals (RFPs) for both integrated benefits programs and individual plan searches.
"Whether a sponsor is reviewing a single plan or undertaking a broader evaluation of multiple benefit programs, OpenArc serves as the independent fiduciary partner in the room, helping organizations navigate provider complexity, make informed decisions, and fulfill their fiduciary responsibilities."
— Chad Pigg Fife, Principal Partner, Institutional Consulting & Corporate Business Development, OpenArcAn Independent Voice in a Consolidating Market
As an independent registered investment advisor and institutional fiduciary consultant, OpenArc serves as a 3(38) investment manager or 3(21) fiduciary, providing ongoing investment oversight and governance support. The addition of provider search consulting expands the firm's ability to support sponsors throughout the full lifecycle of plan evaluation, selection, and monitoring.
The expansion comes as recordkeeping, investment management, participant advice, and wealth management services grow increasingly concentrated among large integrated providers. While consolidation can create efficiencies, it can also introduce economic incentives and conflicts that are difficult for plan sponsors to fully evaluate — a gap OpenArc's model is designed to close through independent analysis and objective guidance.
"Plan sponsors are increasingly being asked to evaluate providers and advice across every area of their benefits program, from 401(k) plans and nonqualified deferred compensation programs to equity compensation and HSAs."
— Chad Pigg Fife, Principal Partner, OpenArc Corporate AdvisoryNo Products to Sell, No Revenue Sharing
Unlike many market participants, OpenArc does not manage investment products, administer plans, or receive revenue-sharing compensation from providers. Operating on an open-architecture platform with no proprietary products, the firm says its recommendations are tied to the interests of plan sponsors and participants rather than provider economics.
OpenArc serves mid-market, large-market, and mega-market organizations, with extensive experience across retirement, deferred compensation, equity compensation, and HSA plans. Its institutional consulting team includes Certified Equity Professionals (CEPs) and specialists in equity compensation plan design, administration, and governance, with active involvement in the National Association of Stock Plan Professionals (NASPP) and the Global Equity Organization (GEO). The team has been recognized by Barron's in its "Top 100 Consulting Teams" list from 2021 through 2025. OpenArc is a member of the Dynasty Network of independent advisory firms.
New search service. OpenArc has expanded its institutional consulting platform to include independent benefits recordkeeper and provider search consulting.
Full benefits coverage. The offering spans retirement, deferred compensation, equity compensation, HSAs, and broader workplace benefits under one fiduciary partner.
Objective RFI/RFP process. OpenArc runs independent requests for information and proposals for both integrated programs and standalone plan searches.
Conflict-free model. The firm sells no proprietary products, administers no plans, and accepts no revenue sharing, keeping advice aligned with sponsors and participants.
Recognized expertise. OpenArc's team includes Certified Equity Professionals and has been named to Barron's "Top 100 Consulting Teams" from 2021 through 2025.