North Dakota Retirement And Investment Office Welcomes New Chief Retirement Officer

(North Dakota Retirement and Investment Office image)

(KNOX) -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.”