The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) has launched its Level 5 Experienced Pensions Professional Certificate (EPPC), its first new qualification since 2022, to provide experienced pension administration professionals with a route to formal recognition of their skills.

Developed with input from Aptia, the EPPC assesses candidates through a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their experience and impact rather than through exams or coursework. PMI stated that the qualification aims to raise professional standards in administration and support the skills required to deliver better outcomes for savers, while aligning with the government’s updated Pensions Roadmap. PMI chief learning officer, Vanessa Jackson, added: “Administration is the backbone of the pensions industry. It is how the promises made to savers are delivered. The EPPC recognises that expertise, giving experienced professionals the recognition they deserve and the confidence to drive better outcomes for members.” PMI is also developing a Level 6 administration qualification, which is planned for release in spring 2027.

Warwickshire Pension Fund has appointed Northern Trust to provide global custody, valuation reporting, capital call execution and performance measurement services.

The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) fund, which has approximately £3.6bn in pension assets, is one of 18 partner funds within the Border to Coast Pensions Partnership. Northern Trust noted that the appointment comes as LGPS funds continue to adapt their operating models in response to the government’s Fit for the Future agenda, including changes around asset pooling, governance, private markets and closer alignment between administering authorities and pools. Northern Trust head of asset owners, EMEA, Ian Hamilton, said: “At a time of meaningful change for the LGPS sector, funds are balancing day-to-day stewardship with the need to adapt for the years ahead. We look forward to supporting the fund with a range of asset servicing solutions, leveraging our experience in the sector to help them navigate the continued evolution of the LGPS landscape.”

People’s Pension has launched a personalised video welcome for new members and integrated its personalised video statements into its member app.

The new welcome service, part of the fund’s efforts to increase engagement, will initially focus on members beginning their pension-saving journey before being rolled out to all new and returning members over the coming weeks, building on the launch of personalised video statements earlier this year. Members will also now be able to access these statements directly through the People’s Pension app. The master trust said the developments form part of its investment in more personalised and accessible digital services, with the videos designed to improve understanding of pension savings and retirement planning. People’s Pension chief commercial officer, David Meliveo, commented: “By making pension information personalised, relevant and accessible, we will be helping members better understand their savings, build confidence in their retirement planning and take greater ownership of their financial future.”

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