How We Work
-
Teamwork That Drives Results
At RSA, each client works with a dedicated team focused on all aspects of their service plan. Your team takes the time to understand unique needs and expectations, creating a service experience tailored specifically to you.
We know retirement plans are long-term investments, and the most successful ones thrive on strong relationships. That’s why RSA is built on the connections we form with clients. We bring together a group whose experience aligns with your goals, working closely with individual circumstances to help every plan succeed.
We also want you to get to know us, so you can feel confident about the people helping your plan thrive.
-
Experience that builds stronger plans.
Since 2007, RSA has focused on building retirement plans that work for both businesses and their people. Our team brings decades of experience in plan design, implementation, and administration—along with a deep understanding of how regulations shape each plan’s success.
That experience allows us to create strategies that deliver meaningful benefits for employees while maximizing value for business owners. We take pride in translating complex rules into clear advantages that keep your plan strong and compliant.
From individual owners and entrepreneurs to nonprofits and national companies, we’ve partnered with organizations of every size—bringing the same depth of expertise and personal attention to each one.
-
Technology that keeps you connected and secure.
Our secure technology platform gives clients easy access to plan data while keeping sensitive information protected.
We’ve built our systems to simplify plan management, streamline data exchanges, and ensure compliance—so you can focus on your business with confidence.
Our state-of-the-art technology makes it possible to provide clients with all plan information through secure electronic communication and data exchanges.
Who We Are
Steve Johnson
Founder & Managing Director
Steve has over 25 years of experience in assisting employers with the design, implementation and ongoing administration of their qualified retirement plans.
His expertise includes consulting with employers on appropriate plan selection, assuring the plan’s compliance with applicable Internal Revenue Service and Department of Labor Regulations and streamlining the operation of their plans.
Steve founded RSA in 2007. Since it’s beginning in 2007 RSA has assisted more than 1,000 plans sponsors with building successful retirement benefit programs for their employees.
When not working, Steve enjoys golf, running and spending time with his wife Liz and their children and grandchildren.
Eric Sharon
Director of Operations
Eric has over 25 years of experience in assisting employers with the design, implementation and ongoing administration of their 401(k), 403(b) and Cash Balance qualified retirement plans. Before joining RSA in 2008 Eric worked as a Supervisor of the Pension Consulting Services Group of RSM McGladrey, Inc.
Eric obtained his undergraduate degree in Economics at the University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign) and an MBA degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf, traveling and spending time with his wife and 2 daughters.
Dana Pawlowski
Senior Plan Consultant
Dana has been with RSA since 2011. As a senior staff member, she handles plan compliance services, legal plan documents, and mentors junior staff members.
Before joining, Dana worked in case management roles with major insurance companies. It was in these roles that she was able to fine-tune her client centered approach and grow her passion to provide the most appropriate benefits to her clients.
Dana earned her undergraduate degree from Illinois State University and her graduate degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
When out of the office, Dana spends time with her husband, two sons, and dog.
Erik Johnson
Plan Administrator & Consultant
Erik Johnson has more than 10 years of experience reviewing and administering employee benefit plans. He began his career with Grant Thornton, LLP, where he developed a strong foundation in plan compliance and accounting.
Erik has extensive experience working with defined benefit and cash balance plans, and he has supported a wide range of clients—from large privately held businesses to small nonprofit organizations. Assuring compliance with applicable IRS and DOL guidelines.
Erik joined the firm in 2021. He is a graduate of Augustana College with a degree in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Outside of work, Erik enjoys spending time on the golf course, cheering on the Bears and spending time with his wife Katie and his two boys.
Jenny McDonald
Plan Administrator & Consultant
Jennifer McDonald has over 10 years of experience supporting employers with the administration and ongoing management of their retirement plans. She plays a key role at RSA in managing client relationships, marketing initiatives, legal plan documents, and compliance services for 401(k) and 403(b) retirement plans.
Jennifer joined RSA in November 2015 after building her career in client service and administrative roles. Her extensive background in these areas has shaped her client-focused approach and strong commitment to excellence. Known for her attention to detail and approachable style, Jennifer is a trusted resource for both clients and colleagues.
When not working, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and dog.
Adrian Quintero
Operations Manager
Adrian Quintero has been with RSA since 2017 and currently serves as Operations Manager, specializing in strategic planning, process improvement, and operational efficiency. With over 12 years of experience in customer service and administrative operations, she manages invoices, data collection, and compliance with IRS and Department of Labor standards.
Having worked across multiple financial offices, Adrian brings a strong background in organization, productivity, and team collaboration. She’s passionate about bringing people together, streamlining workflows, and creating strategies that drive success.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with her daughter and two dogs, especially when outdoors enjoying nature. Family time and traveling together are some of her greatest joys.
Ryan Donahue
Plan Administrator
Ryan Donahue has been working as a retirement plan administrator since graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2020. He has been a member of our team as a Plan Administrator since 2021.
Since joining our team, he has used his experience and knowledge of the industry to assist 401(k), 403(b), Cash Balance, and Defined Benefit Plans with their annual compliance and day to day services.
Ryan enjoys spending most of his free time outdoors. Whether it be attending concerts, sporting events of his favorite teams, or going on walks or hikes with his close friends and family.
Dianna Valdez
Plan Administrator
Dianna Valdez is a 401(k) Plan Administrator. She has experience managing all aspects of plan administration, including contributions, distributions, compliance testing, and payroll coordination.
Dianna enjoys finding solutions and helping make retirement planning both stress-free and engaging. Outside of work, she spends time with her very energetic Goldendoodle, who is never too tired for a walk in the park.
Lyle Kean
Plan Administrator
Lyle Kean handles plan administration for 401(k), 403 (b), and DBDC combo plans. This involves preparing the plan documents, providing regulatory compliance services and day-to-day customer service when needed.
Lyle became a member of RSA in December of 2022. Lyle had worked for a year in the retirement plan administration industry and a year in wealth management sales prior to joining RSA. Lyle has a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
In Lyle’s free time you can see him at a local movie theater catching a film as well as playing pickup basketball at any court that’s available.
Natalie Houpy
Payroll Processing Administrator
Natalie joined RSA in December 2025. She currently works as a Payroll Processing Administrator that supports the 3(16) services team in the management of retirement plan payroll contributions.
Prior to joining the team, Natalie worked in administrative and customer service roles. Natalie received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from DePaul University.
Outside of work, she enjoys music, biking, and spending time with her dog.
Sean Reddy
Participant Services Coordinator
Sean Reddy joined the company in 2024 and serves as Participant Services Coordinator. In this role, he manages all distribution-related projects, with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and providing a smooth experience for plan participants.
Drawing on a strong customer service background, Sean emphasizes clear communication and reliable support throughout each stage of the distribution process. He approaches his work with professionalism and attention to detail, while maintaining an approachable and helpful demeanor.
Outside of work, Sean enjoys golfing, collecting music records, and spending time with family and friends.
Focus on your business.
We’ll focus on your future.
Let us know how we can help you with your retirement plan needs.
Retirement Solutions Advisors, LLC
| Chicago, IL |
Retirement Solutions Advisors, LLC | Chicago, IL |
Retirement Solutions Advisors, LLC
| Chicago, IL |
Retirement Solutions Advisors, LLC | Chicago, IL |