Amanda Iverson, CEO of Pinnacle Plan Design, has been critical in growing the company from a small operation into a nationally recognized leader in retirement plan design. Bold leadership, strategic vision, and a commitment to innovation has contributed to the growth and success. In a recent conversation, Amanda shared valuable insights that resonate deeply with business owners, decision-makers, and leaders looking to scale their organizations.
Building a Recognizable Brand with an Enterprising Vision
One of Pinnacle’s early challenges was brand recognition. While the company was well-respected in its industry, it was often associated with its founder rather than its business name. Amanda spearheaded an ambitious strategic initiative to establish Pinnacle Plan Design as a recognized brand, ensuring the company’s reputation stood independent of any single individual. Pinnacle's evolution underscores the importance of an enterprising mindset in brand-building—not just for external recognition but also for long-term stability and growth.
The Human Touch in a Digital Age
Technology has transformed how businesses operate, but Amanda emphasizes that service should never lose its people-centric approach. At Pinnacle, clients don’t call a generic 1-800 number—they have direct access to dedicated professionals who understand their retirement plans. This level of personalized service has helped the company stand out in a competitive industry. The takeaway is clear: leverage technology to enhance efficiency, but never sacrifice the human connection that builds trust and loyalty with clients. A people-centric commitment ensures that businesses maintain strong relationships and continue to thrive in a digital-first environment.
Navigating Industry Challenges and Trends with Commitment
As the 2024 President of the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA), Amanda is at the forefront of advocating for retirement plan accessibility. She highlights a major challenge in the industry: the coverage gap. Many American workers lack access to corporate retirement plans, making it harder to save for the future. Through policy advocacy and industry collaboration, Amanda and her peers are committed to closing this gap. For business leaders, staying ahead of industry trends and potential regulatory changes requires a committed approach. Whether it’s in finance, IT, or another field, proactive adaptation is a key to long-term success.
Scaling with a Strong Culture and Remote Workforce
Amanda attributes much of Pinnacle’s success to its culture and people. With a team spread across multiple states, maintaining a strong, unified company culture requires effort and intention. By embracing a fully remote workforce, Pinnacle has been able to attract top talent from across the country while ensuring employees feel connected through video collaboration and internal engagement strategies.
Pinnacle's transition to a fully remote workforce is a valuable case study. Investing in the right technology and fostering a strong, people-centric culture can lead to increased retention, engagement, and ultimately, better business outcomes.
The Role of IT in Business Success
Technology played a crucial role in Pinnacle’s ability to pivot seamlessly when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Thanks to a proactive investment in IT infrastructure, the company transitioned to full remote work without missing a beat. Amanda credits this to strategic planning and partnering with a managed IT provider, ensuring the company was prepared for the unexpected. IT should not be an afterthought. Reliable and scalable technology infrastructure can be the difference between business continuity and disruption. By being enterprising in their IT strategies, Pinnacle safeguarded their future success.
Advice for Future Business Leaders
When asked about her advice for aspiring leaders, Amanda’s message was clear: Be bold, build a strong support system, and embrace failure as part of success. She believes that hard work, strategic vision, and a willingness to take risks are the keys to long-term achievement. These words serve as a reminder that success isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about execution, resilience, and continuous learning. An ambitious approach combined with a people-centric culture ensures that businesses remain adaptable and forward-thinking.
Setting the PACE
Pinnacle's journey offers invaluable lessons for SMBs looking to scale, innovate, and remain competitive. From embracing technology while maintaining a human touch to building a strong brand and culture, Amanda's insights provide a roadmap for sustainable growth.
At our Silverado, we understand the vital role that technology plays in business success. Just like Pinnacle Plan Design, we believe that IT should empower businesses, streamline operations, and help organizations focus on what they do best. If you’re looking to optimize your IT strategy, we’re here to help you build a future-proof foundation for success. Contact us today.
