Meet Our Team
Zach Harris, Ed. D
Vice President
Zach specializes in developing benefit solutions for educational institutions and public entities, with a particular focus on managing the Missouri Educators' Trust, a 12,000-member consortium. Drawing on more than a decade of experience as a Missouri school superintendent, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges facing school systems and provides thoughtful, tailored guidance that aligns employee benefits with organizational goals. Zach is known for combining educational leadership experience with practical insight, building trusted relationships, and delivering solutions that support long-term success.
He holds a Doctorate and Specialist degree in Education from Saint Louis University, along with advanced degrees from Pittsburg State University and Missouri Southern State University. Outside of work, Zach enjoys spending time with family, exploring the outdoors, and pursuing his passion for lifelong learning.
Chance Wistrom, Ed. D
Vice President
Chance specializes in developing benefit solutions for educational and public entities, with a particular focus on managing the Missouri Educators' Trust, a 12,000-member consortium. Drawing on a decade of experience as a Missouri school superintendent, he brings a practical understanding of the challenges and priorities facing educational organizations, helping clients navigate complex benefit decisions with confidence. Known for his strategic, client-focused approach, Chance works closely with organizations to create solutions that align with their workforce and long-term goals.
He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lindenwood University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Missouri State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry/Industrial Hygiene from the University of Central Missouri. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors and on the water, supporting his daughters’ activities, and bow hunting when time permits.
Frank Aquino
Vice President
With more than 20 years of experience, Frank helps medium and large organizations develop employee benefits strategies that support business goals, enhance employee experience, and optimize benefit investments. He takes a comprehensive approach to workforce and benefits planning, helping employers navigate the full employee lifecycle by aligning benefits, culture, workforce data, and talent management objectives.
Frank is known for his consultative, client-focused approach and his ability to deliver practical solutions that balance cost management with employee well-being. Before joining the firm, he spent nearly 15 years at Paychex, supporting more than 1,500 organizations across a wide range of industries, followed by seven years at Gallagher, where he partnered with executive leadership teams on benefits and human capital strategies.
A United States Marine Corps veteran, Frank earned a degree in Business Administration from the University at Buffalo and completed additional business studies at Lindenwood University. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, traveling, following the Buffalo Bills, and spending time with family and friends.
LinkedInRob Johnson
Benefits Consultant
Rob brings more than 24 years of experience in employee benefits and property & casualty insurance, providing strategic guidance and risk management solutions to organizations across the education sector. Since 2015, he has focused specifically on serving school districts, helping clients navigate complex insurance and benefits challenges with a practical, service-oriented approach. His industry knowledge, consultative mindset, and commitment to understanding each client's unique objectives make him a trusted resource and advisor.
Rob earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Marketing from Maryville University – St. Louis. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching junior high boys basketball, supporting his son's collegiate soccer career at Quincy University, contributing to his daughter's homemade dog treat business, and spending time with family.
EXPERT EDUCATION
Events and Webinars
Employee Benefits
AI Advantage in Benefits: Practical Use Cases That Support HR and Employees
A practical view of how AI can support benefits teams while improving the employee experience.
November 17, 2026 at 01:00 pm CT | Virtual
Register Here
Employee Benefits
The Compliance Pathway Q4
Don't miss this ongoing opportunity to ensure you comply with current regulations and are prepared for what's ahead.
December 2, 2026 at 01:00 pm CT | Virtual
Register Here
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Insights
Legal Alert: Recent Federal Compliance Updates for Health and Welfare Plans
The federal agencies have recently released several pieces of guidance that are of interest to employers who sponsor group health plans and dependent care assistance programs (DCAPs). The following describes these recent updates in more detail.
October 7, 2026
Find out moreLegal Alert: Medicare Part D Notice Reminder
Employers that provide prescription drug coverage must disclose to plan participants (including COBRA participants) who are eligible for Medicare Part D whether the prescription drug coverage provided under the group health plan is creditable or non-creditable. Employers should send the notices by October 15.
October 5, 2026
Find out moreTwo Alera Group Interns Awarded 2026 CIAB Scholarships
We are proud to celebrate two members of our 2026 summer internship program who have been selected as recipients of The Council Foundation's CIAB Scholarship.
July 31, 2026
Find out moreEmployee Benefits
Legal Alert: IRS Issues ACA Affordability Percentage Adjustment for 2027
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released Rev. Proc. 2026-26.
July 24, 2026
Find out more