About this job
An exciting and challenging opportunity has arisen for a Pensions Manager within our Finance Department. We are currently seeking a highly motivated and dynamic individual who will be involved and able to show demonstrable experience in all aspects of running the in-house administration of a medium defined benefit occupational pension scheme. Versatility and a flexible approach are therefore useful attributes.
The UNISON Staff Pension Scheme is a multi-employer scheme. In addition to the Principal Employer, there is one other small participating employer plus a large number of very small employers who participate in the scheme.
The Staff Pensions Unit is a small team and therefore this post requires a “hands on” approach. The successful applicant will therefore need to become familiar with the detail of the work carried out by other members of the team.
Responsibilities include all aspects of servicing meetings of Trustees and production of quarterly administration reports. Taking the lead in anticipating the effect on the scheme of legislative changes and therefore co-ordinating any changes to the Trust Deed and Rules. The post holder will be responsible for producing the scheme booklets and newsletters as well as maintaining the staff pensions website.
Communication is key as the post holder will be required to liaise with participating employers, give technical guidance to participating employers as well as appointed advisors and service providers. The post holder will have responsibility to provide all relevant data and information to Scheme Actuary for the purpose of the scheme valuations. The post holder will also liaise with Investment Managers whilst monitoring investments and issuing cash movement instructions when required.
The post holder will be required to maintain accounting records including monthly reconciliations and co-ordinate the production of the annual report and accounts. As well as co-ordinating periodic reviews of advisers to ensure good Scheme Governance, the post holder will be responsible for maintaining the Scheme’s Risk Register and Conflicts of Interest policy as well as ensuring compliance with GDPR. Time management is also critical as the Pensions Manager is responsible for the completion of various returns within deadlines such as: The Pensions Regulator’s Annual Return, HMRC annual tax return, HMRC Event report, HMRC Quarterly Reporting for tax as well as PRI Annual reporting.
The role calls for an individual who has strong proven pensions experience, analytical skills excellent knowledge and understanding of systems to be able to produce and present relevant information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders and the ability to communicate effectively and at all levels. The post holder will be highly organised and lead a team dealing with members queries and difficult or unusual cases whilst covering all aspects of staff management.
How to apply
To apply for this opportunity please download and complete the General application form (under “Documents”). See job description and person specification (under “Documents”)
Please note that only the General application form will be accepted.
Please send a copy of the completed application form along with a copy of the recruitment and disability form to Serena Hadley and email s.hadley@unison.co.uk by no later than 5pm on Friday 29 April 2022 quoting ref: ORD/10
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to be held on 12th May 2022 at the UNISON Centre. Unfortunately, UNISON cannot acknowledge all applications and candidates will be contacted only if shortlisted for interview.
About UNISON
UNISON is the UK’s leading public services trade union, with over 1.3 million members working in the public sector, private, voluntary and community sectors and in the energy services. We employ approximately 1,200 staff, with around 370 at our national centre in Euston in central London and the remainder in our 12 regions across the UK, including Northern Ireland.
UNISON is a dynamic, progressive union, committed to equality. We encourage men and women of all ages, Black and minority ethnic groups, disabled people, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to work with us.
