As the retirement plan industry comes of age and enters a period of relative calm following a period characterized by tumultuous economic, socio-cultural and regulatory change, experts predict the growing role of retirement advisors will be one of the most noteworthy changes the industry will see over the next five years.

According to Diversified's just released Prescience 2015: Expert Opinions on the Future of Retirement Plans, the need for ongoing holistic service from a third party is leading many plan sponsors to opt for a professional retirement plan advisor that services plans on a fee or retainer basis.

"The emergence and organization of professional retirement plan advisors will have a profound impact on our business over the next five years," said Joe Masterson, Diversified senior vice president. "These professionals are dedicated to the retirement plans business, and therefore are well-suited to understanding plan compliance, designing appropriate fund arrays, positively impacting plan design and helping participants achieve funded retirements."