Terry Crocker, Scott Hayes, Mannix Smith: The Language of Trust in Employee Benefits

Terry Crocker, CEO of Tropical Texas Behavioral Health, holds master’s degrees in psychology and business. Since 2003, Terry has led the agency’s growth into one of Texas’s largest community centers, now serving 34,000 people annually with a $123M budget and 1,400 staff. Honors include Behavioral Healthcare Champion (2013), the National Council’s Visionary Leadership Award (2018), and appointment as an inaugural Commissioner on the Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health.

Scott Hayes is President and CEO of ISC Group, Inc., based in Dallas. With 30 years of industry experience, he joined ISC in 1997. Scott is a past president of the American Retirement Association and NTSAA, and served on the ASPPA Board. He’s a founding member and contributor to 403(b) Advisor magazine and currently serves on the board of the Texas Public Plan Coalition.

Mannix Smith brings 28 years of experience in defined contribution, ESOP, and executive benefit plans, including 27 years with ISC Group. For the past decade, Mannix has led retirement plan strategy, compliance, and relationship management at ISC, overseeing key programs and client partnerships.

In this episode, Eric, Terry, Scott, and Mannix discuss:

• Engaging employees about company benefits and earning their trust
• Maximizing retirement options
• Engage through presence and education
• Leverage plan design for growth
• Uphold fiduciary and financial excellence

Key Takeaways:

• For eligible government entities, contribute fully to both 457(b) and 403(b) plans. Take advantage of unique plan features that are part of a 457(b). Understand the strategic layering of 401(a), 457(b), and 403(b) plans for greater retirement flexibility.
• Promote benefits actively. Offer regular communication and face-to-face consultations. Build trust and increase participation through consistent, visible leadership.
• Encourage enrollment through generous matching programs. Consider the best use of forfeitures to support benefit enhancements. Structure plans to drive long-term participation and asset growth.
• Conduct quarterly investment reviews. Monitor advisor performance carefully. Maintain adequate reserves and use professional strategies focused on liquidity, safety, and return.

“Take the time out to listen to the