RIO welcomes Kauffeld as Chief Retirement Officer

BISMARCK, ND - The North Dakota Retirement and Investment Office (RIO) welcomed Chase Kauffeld as its Chief Retirement Officer (CRO), effective Jan. 5, 2026. In this role, Kauffeld guides the Teachers' Fund for Retirement (TFFR), a defined benefit plan that provides retirement income to North Dakota educators.

Kauffeld is responsible for supporting and advising the TFFR Board of Trustees; leading strategic planning and program improvement initiatives; building partnerships with stakeholders; and fostering a collaborative, high performing team culture.

A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Kauffeld brings a blend of investment, audit, and operational experience to RIO. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a Level II candidate in the Chartered Financial Analyst program.

"Chase's background makes him an excellent fit for the Chief Retirement Officer position," said Jodi A. Smith, RIO executive director. "We are excited to welcome him and his family to North Dakota and confident he will be a strong addition to our leadership team."

Overseen by the TFFR Board of Trustees and administered by RIO, the pension program serves more than 26,000 participants, including over 12,000 active members employed by North Dakota public schools and state institutions.

"I'm honored to join the Retirement and Investment Office and lead the Teachers' Fund for Retirement," said Kauffeld. "I look forward to working with the Board, our team, and stakeholders to strengthen benefit security and deliver long-term value for North Dakota educators."