Heather W. Clark
Heather W. Clark is a seasoned HR leader and retirement plan strategist with nearly two decades of experience in financial services and employee benefits. Born in Manhattan and raised in Eutawville, South Carolina, she developed an early understanding of how access to financial knowledge can shape life outcomes. Today, she serves as Manager of Retirement Plan Administration at National Gypsum Company, where she leads the design, governance, and compliance of complex defined benefit and defined contribution plans across the U.S. and Canada. Her work is centered on simplifying retirement programs and empowering employees with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve financial confidence and long-term security.
Clark’s career journey is rooted in resilience and purpose. After experiencing the financial impact of the 9/11 market downturn early in her career, she was inspired to transition into financial services despite not having a traditional finance background. Over time, she built deep expertise in retirement readiness strategies, fiduciary oversight, and employee financial wellness, holding key roles at TIAA before advancing into her current leadership position. Known for her collaborative approach, she works closely with legal, payroll, advisors, and recordkeeping partners to ensure retirement plans are accessible, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes authenticity, gravitas, and a commitment to helping others retire with dignity.
Beyond her corporate role, Clark is a licensed North Carolina Realtor® and holds life and health insurance licenses, along with FINRA Series 6 and 63 certifications. She is passionate about expanding financial equity and often engages in community-focused initiatives, including housing, food security, and support for underserved populations. A speaker and advocate for resilient leadership, she shares insights on personal growth, confidence, and navigating change. Across all her endeavors, Clark remains driven by a singular mission: to equip individuals and communities with the resources and confidence to build lasting financial security.
• North Carolina Insurance License
• Series 63
• Series 6
• Strayer University - MBA
• Team Awards for Integrity in Financial Services
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
• United Way Campaign
• Women's Shelters and Transitional Housing Support for Unhoused Individuals
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the experiences that shaped my resilience and purpose. Beginning my career in customer service, the financial impact I experienced after 9/11 became a turning point that pushed me to take control of my financial future and help others do the same. Despite not having a financial services background, I pursued my passion by earning my MBA from Strayer University while raising three children as a single mother, demonstrating my commitment to growth and perseverance. I also continue to challenge myself through part-time work in real estate, which aligns with my long-term goal of creating a meaningful impact, particularly in supporting the unhoused community.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that it’s possible to build a successful career in a field you genuinely love—one that is not only personally fulfilling but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to recognize the meaningful impact they can have by helping clients achieve a secure and successful retirement. By guiding individuals through their financial journeys, you enable them to fully enjoy the next phase of their lives after years of hard work, making your role both rewarding and purpose-driven.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is the ability to grow, expand, and build strong professional networks. Having been in my role for just under two years, I am focused on deepening my expertise, forming meaningful connections, and positioning myself for continued advancement in the industry.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center around collaboration, purpose, and service. I embrace the mindset of “I get to” rather than “I have to,” which keeps me grounded in gratitude for the work I do. I value strong teamwork and take pride in collaborating with cross-functional partners to simplify complex processes, particularly in managing our retirement plan so employees feel informed and supported. I also believe in effective, people-centered leadership and understand that success is always a collective effort. Beyond my professional role, I am deeply committed to giving back—staying involved with community initiatives like United Way and supporting women’s shelters and underserved populations. This passion for service extends into my long-term goal of creating a broader impact, particularly in helping the unhoused community.