Head of Pension Scheme Executive at M&G PLC

Job Description

At M&G our purpose is to help people manage and grow their savings and investments, responsibly. As a business, we are continuing to take steps towards a sustainable future, delivering better long-term solutions for our customers and clientsand identifying new opportunities to make a positive impact for our environment and communities . To help us achieve our vision were looking for exceptional people who live our values of care and integrity and who can inspire others; embrace change; deliverresults and keep it simple. We will consider flexible working arrangements for any of our roles and also offer work place accommodations to ensure you have what you need to effectively deliver in your role. M&G PLC has three UK pension schemes, two of which are defined benefit and one which has both a defined benefit and defined contribution section. These cover c4,400 active members and 35,000 deferred and pensioner members. The role of Head of Pension Scheme Executive is a senior and independent role with accountability for leading a team of seven colleagues who provide the three UK Pension Trustee Boards with the leadership, information, services, resources and support requiredto fulfil their obligations under the relevant Trust Deed and Rules This involves ensuring that the schemes operate effectively and in accordance with pension regulation, supporting the Trustee Boards and overseeing the management, advisory services and administration of the Schemes. The role reports in the HR Chief Operating Officer, however it is independent and works on behalf of and under the direction of the pension scheme Trustees rather than M&G as an employer. There is a separate Pension and Benefits team within the Reward functionthat acts for M&G as an employer. ResponsibilitiesAs Head of Pension Scheme Executive at M&G, you will have accountability for:

• Leadership of the Pensions Executive Team, made up of seven colleagues
• Agreeing business plans and forward agendas for the schemes with the Trustee Boards
• Oversight of secretarial services to the Trustee boards including finalising agendas and meeting dates, preparation of board packs and circulation of minutes
• Management of Scheme budgets
• Management of Scheme reporting in accordance with pensions regulation
• Oversight of Audits and the production of an Annual Report and Accounts for each scheme
• Influence and manage the selection, appointment and relationship with key Scheme advisers
• Oversight of the 3rd party administrators service delivery, contracts and relationships, ensuring that schemes operate effectively and meet performance, quality and service targets, as well as complying with industry standards
• Management of Trustee projects as well as leading the representation of the Trustee on company projects
• Development of pensions policies to ensure good governance of the Schemes
• Horizon scanning to keep up to date with current and emerging statutory regulations and monitor changes in the legal requirements for pension schemes and developments in pension provision
• Deal with complex pension discretions, queries and complaints escalated to you by the Pensions Executive Team.
• Develop impactful communication strategies for the pension schemes
• Support the maintenance and continued development of good working relationships between the employer and Trustee Boards
• Encourage joined-up working between advisers in support of the Trustees business plans
• Be a thought leader, and where appropriate make recommendations to improve the management of the Schemes

SkillsYoull need to have:

• excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills
• strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• analytical skills and the ability to interpret and pass on complex information
• strong influencing and negotiation skills
• a good level of numeracy and IT literacy
• the ability to lead and motivate a high-performing team
• good judgement and decision-making skills
• organisation, planning and project management skills
• meticulous attention to detail as well as ability to see the big picture
• the ability to work well under pressure

Background

• The successful candidate will likely have a background in pension scheme management and leadership, with technical expertise comparable to PMI qualification or prior experience in consulting.

Location & Travel RequirementsM&G are willing to consider candidates for this role from across the UK and engage the successful candidate on either a homeworking or an office-based contract. However the successful candidate must be prepared to travel in person to all Trustee Board meetings,of which a minimum of 10 would be expected to be held in London and two in Stirling each year, with the likelihood of 4-10 additional in-person Board, Committee and working group meetings also in any given year. Recruiter : Martyn Jack We have a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture at M&G plc, underpinned by our policies and our employee-led networks who provide networking opportunities, advice and support for the diverse communities our colleagues represent. Regardless of gender, ethnicity,age, sexual orientation, nationality or disability we are looking to attract, promote and retain exceptional people. We also welcome those who take part in military service and those returning from career breaks.