TOP 100 MAGAZINE

Al Otto​

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Al Otto, CEO and co-founder of Planscope360 LLC, is a serial entrepreneur with 35 years of experience in the financial services industry. His expertise spans retirement plan administration and fiduciary processes, with an emphasis on company vision, strategy, leadership, and stewardship.

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Al’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He is a Board Certified Fiduciary (BCF) and an Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst (AIFA). His forthcoming book, Stop Doing Nothing: How to Revive the U.S. Teacher’s Retirement System, is set to be published in the next two months.

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Al’s journey began in the 401(k) sector and evolved significantly when he identified a critical issue: excessive hidden fees in 401(k) plans. Planscope360 LLC, founded in 2023 and based in Durham, NC, aims to revolutionize plan management and governance for K-12 and public retirement plans. His vision is to provide educators and staff with a clear path to financial dignity and to improve retirement plan outcomes while reducing liability for plan sponsors. The company employs a tech-enabled service model that enhances participation, communication, and adherence to state regulations.

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Al’s career has been marked by several successful entrepreneurial ventures, including a couple of big wins, two nice exits, and two learning experiences. His background as an expert witness in fiduciary breach lawsuits, such as the precedent-setting Tussey vs. ABB case, has helped change federal laws to increase transparency and accountability in 401(k) plans. "The 401(k) world has changed radically," Al notes. "with public sector plans you don't need to change the law; you need to educate the educators so they understand that they can get on a solid path with leadership and stewardship."

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Planscope360 has already made a significant impact, serving hundreds of school districts in its first year. The company’s proprietary Governance-as-a-Service (GAAS) technology offers holistic investment comparisons and streamlined communications, all while ensuring adherence to state regulations. This platform minimizes financial friction and integrates institutional products with the personalized experience of individual financial advice.

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One of the most pressing issues Planscope360 addresses are the excessive fees in K-12 retirement plans.Planscope360’s institutional framework reduces these costs, alleviating pressure on school districts and driving advocacy to increase participation.

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Planscope360’s vision is to provide a robust path to financial dignity for K-12 educators and staff, rewarding a team of committed professionals while delivering outstanding compensation to team members, investors, and participating providers. Al’s dedication and innovative approach are poised to bring lasting positive changes to the financial security of public education employees.

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By leveraging technology and institutional frameworks, Al is not just addressing the symptoms of the problem, but transforming the very foundation of K-12 retirement planning. His work ensures that educators, who shape the future, can look forward to a secure and dignified retirement.

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Al Otto

CEO and Co-Founder

Planscope360 LLC
Website: https://www.planscope360.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ottoal