With a degree in Applied Economics, Michele Suriano, owner of Castle Rock Investment Company, began her career in lending, but quickly discovered her passion for investing.
“I was lending, originally in the 90s,” she explains. “And by the end of the 90s, switched to investing, which is more fun and positive. People are trying to help themselves, so that’s why it’s nice.”
Michele opened her company in 2006, realizing she could create something special independently. She consulted people on their retirement investments and what worked best for them.
Things changed drastically for Michele in 2019 when Congress approved the SECURE Act, which introduced the Pooled Employer Plan (PEP). A PEP is a retirement plan where multiple small businesses participate in a joint venture sponsored by a pooled plan provider. Benefits include cost savings, bundled outsourcing, tax credits, specialized plans for each employer, and more.
Venturing into the unknown, Michele knew she needed to embrace this new idea, but needed support. In February 2022, Michele partnered with John Slavic who had recently relocated his Ukrainian employees to Poland. His company, Slavic401K, was perfect to serve as a Pooled Plan Provider and help Michele fill in the gaps.
“At the end of the day, I want a leader like John Slavic. I want to partner…with a company like that,” Michele says, proudly. After meeting John in person at a conference, Michele was even more solidified in her choice.
“He sings ‘Happy Birthday’ to all his employees on their birthday!” Michele exclaims.
Now, Michele's women-owned, community-focused business features everything she dreamed possible. With Slavic401K running the pooled plan and MidAtlantic as her Directed Trustee, Michele offers PEP to the Castle Rock community and surrounding areas. She teaches small businesses how to invest in their employees and futures, leading to a more stable environment for everyone.
In addition to investing in retirement, Michele invests in her health by teaching yoga at Peace Out Yoga.
“My work involves a lot of numbers, a lot of the time, so I teach yoga on the side,” Michele says. She talks about Peace Out Yoga: "I love those girls. They are following their dreams…I always try to support them as best I can.”
Michele is the queen of investment in the Castle Rock area, and we are here for it!
Michele is the queen of investment in the Castle Rock area.