Robert Sichel Bio

Robert Sichel is a partner in the firm’s New York office, where he is a member of the Investment Management practice group and oversees the firm’s ERISA Fiduciary practice. Robert helps financial institutions navigate the complexities of ERISA when manufacturing products for, and providing services to, retirement plans and ERISA “plan asset” funds. Robert also advises financial services businesses, with a focus on wealth management and asset management, regarding mergers and acquisitions. On a day-to-day basis, Robert advises leading consultants and OCIO firms on all aspects of their businesses, including investment manager selection and oversight, client onboarding, responding to RFPs and RFIs, client contract drafting and negotiation, operational matters, developing and maintaining pooled investment platforms, compliance and best practices. Robert advises investment managers structuring and operating pooled investment funds to avoid ERISA “plan asset” status, such as venture capital operating companies and real estate operating companies. He also advises investment managers and other fiduciaries in navigating ERISA’s fiduciary responsibility and prohibited transaction rules. Support includes drafting and implementing policies and procedures; providing training and compliance advice with respect to prohibited transaction exemptions; and drafting and negotiating investment management agreements, fund documents, side letters and trading-related agreements (e.g., ISDAs, clearing agreements, futures agreements, securities lending agreements and prime brokerage agreements). Robert also counsels sponsors of defined benefit and defined contribution plans on investment matters, governance, de-risking, and service provider (e.g., consultants, investment managers, trustees, recordkeepers) due diligence and oversight. Investment committees at some of the world’s largest plan sponsors rely on Robert for training and best practices advice.