Defined contribution pensions

Defined contribution pensions

Ensuring your defined contribution (DC) pension scheme is well run can help improve value for money, drive better engagement and deliver the best possible outcomes. 

Meet our DC experts

Our dedicated team combine significant DC schemes experience with the full range of expertise available within our professional trustee and pensions governance firm.

  • Outcomes through collaboration – Our extensive knowledge and experience of master trusts, IGC/GAAs and own-trust schemes, will help lead you through the challenges of operating your DC pension scheme.
  • Helping scheme sponsors – We make sure schemes are run efficiently, managing the costs of own-trusts and the oversight of master trusts; allowing sponsors to achieve the desired level of governance.
  • Creating shared objectives – We help align all stakeholders to focus on achieving great outcomes for members, whilst also balancing the needs of the schemes and their supporting businesses.
  • Knowing every scheme differs – We take the time to understand the nuances of each scheme and their sponsors. We find ways to work together efficiently without compromising on member outcomes.

Trusteeship of a
master trust

Trusteeship of a master trust

A master trust is a multi-employer DC pension scheme. Trustee boards need specialist DC knowledge and expertise to enhance member engagement and improve value for money. Our wide spread experience includes investment, communications, governance, risk and administration to drive the best outcome for members. That is where we can help!

Managing an ‘own-trust’ DC pension scheme

Managing an ‘own-trust’ based DC pension scheme

Increasing regulatory pressures and changing market dynamics drive many employers to consolidate into a master trust. However, we know that many employers want to retain their own-trust arrangements or continue to operate a DC section of a hybrid scheme. Our DC experts act as trustees for own-trust and hybrid schemes; working collaboratively with employers to deliver first rate services to members, excellent value for money and – ultimately – positive retirement outcomes.

Employer oversight committees

Employer oversight committees

Many employers choose to set up a pensions governance committee to oversee their DC pension provision where it has been outsourced to a GPP or master trust. We can act as an independent committee member or chair to ensure the provider of the outsourced arrangement continues to deliver on its promises, the scheme is well run and its members achieve good outcomes.

Governance for workplace pension providers (GAA/IGC)

Governance for workplace pension providers (GAA/IGC)

Workplace pensions providers need governance committees to ensure the minimum governance standards set by the FCA are met, particularly in relation to default funds. We can act as an independent chair or committee member to your Independent Governance Committee (IGC) or for a Governance Advisory Arrangement (GAA). As an IGC or GAA, our duties include assessing the ongoing value for money provided, acting solely in the interests of relevant scheme members, raising concerns with the Provider and FCA where they are not addressed, and reporting annually on the work we have undertaken.

Moving to a
master trust

Moving to a master trust

If you’re looking to move your existing DC pension scheme over to a master trust, then you’ll need to understand all the different master trust options available, and have a plan for working with the providers to ensure your scheme is successfully and efficiently transitioned to its new home. We can help you plan your move: from supporting with provider selection, outlining the key features and governance structures available, helping with communications, managing stakeholders and working with your advisers and/or selected provider to manage the project throughout. Let us guide you in selecting the best option for your scheme.

DC secretarial and communications services

DC Secretarial and Communications Services

Alongside our trustee, IGC/GAAs and committee membership services, we have a friendly team of highly experienced governance, communications and secretarial experts who provide services to a host of DC pension arrangements. These include master trust and own-trust schemes, IGC/GAAs and employer-sponsored governance committees. From preparing risk registers and taking minutes, arranging meetings to ensuring you comply with regulations, co-ordinating and writing meeting papers to providing engaging communication strategies; our wider DC team can assist in ensuring your DC pension arrangements run like clockwork.

Contact us today, to find out more about how our DC team can help your pension scheme.

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