Ted Newton
About Ted Newton
Ted Newton is the Communications With The Public Compliance Lead at MassMutual, with extensive experience in advertising regulation and compliance training.
Current Role at MassMutual
Ted Newton serves as the Communications with the Public Compliance Lead at MassMutual. He is primarily responsible for reviewing advertising related to MassMutual's digital and direct-to-consumer initiatives since 2015. Ted also represents and advocates for MassMutual’s compliance efforts within industry and regulatory forums. His leadership and comprehensive understanding have been vital in maintaining the company's adherence to advertising regulations and standards.
Previous Experience at NASD Advertising Regulation
Ted Newton worked at NASD Advertising Regulation, now known as FINRA, as a Supervisor from 1988 to 2007. During his tenure, he supervised analysts who reviewed advertising for compliance with NASD and SEC standards. Ted was involved in hiring and training both new and experienced analysts, conducting investigations of deficient sales material, and aiding the department’s director in setting policy and goals. His significant contributions included maintaining high regulatory standards and ensuring the advertising compliance of broker/dealers.
Educational Background
Ted Newton achieved his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Duke University, completing his studies from 1981 to 1984. Prior to that, he attended Kingswood-Oxford from 1975 to 1980. His education provided him a strong foundational understanding of political and regulatory frameworks, which has been instrumental in his professional roles in advertising and compliance.
Career Beginnings
Ted Newton started his career as a marketing representative for The Travelers Insurance Company in 1984. Here, he received extensive training in securities and life and health insurance products and services. Before joining NASD, he initiated a program aimed at marketing insurance and annuities to branch customers at a community savings & loan. These early experiences built a solid foundation in insurance marketing and compliance.
Leadership at MassMutual
During his tenure at MassMutual, Ted Newton managed the advertising review team, which was the company’s first attempt at combining personnel from separate insurance and broker/dealer compliance departments. He led the agency inspection team starting in October 2000 and managed MassMutual's newly-formed education team in March 2003, providing vital compliance training. He returned to leading the advertising review team in June 2010 after the previous manager's retirement. His leadership and strategic direction have significantly contributed to the company's compliance initiatives.