How an actuary built the framework for two successful state retirement funds.

He will be given a Lifetime Achievement Award in Boston during the 12th Annual New England Institutional Forum on Sept 17-18. Reserve your seats now.

Larry Johansen is the former CIO of the New Hampshire Retirement System. Under Johansen’s leadership, the fund consistently achieved returns above the assumed return rate of 6.75%, averaging 9.3% over his last 10 years there, net of fees, and before he retired during the pandemic year of 2022.

During his tenure, from June 30th, 2010, to June 30th, 2021, the New Hampshire Retirement System Trust Fund’s assets more than doubled, growing from $4.9 billion to $11.6 billion.

During this interview, we will learn how starting his career as an actuary made quite a difference. We will also discuss what was important in building the framework between and behind two successful funds where he worked: the New York State Teachers’ Retirement Fund and the New Hampshire Retirement System. We’ll learn what it was like to answer to both a retirement board and investment board, while maximizing returns, minimizing risks, and keeping the plan well funded.

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