Do you want to work for an organisation that values difference and includes everyone? If so, the Environment Agency is the organisation for you.
We are fully committed to being an inclusive employer and ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. We welcome flexible working patterns for all vacancies (including job share).
We are looking for a pensions specialist to assist the Pensions Administration Manager in all aspects of Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) administration. This will include the operational management and delivery of our third-party administration contract in line with the Environment Agency Pension Fund’s (EAPF) administration strategy. You will ensure the administration service is being delivered to the agreed standards, which will involve identifying, managing and monitoring process improvements to uphold a high-quality service to all LGPS members and stakeholders. You will also be expected to fully support the EAPF’s scheme employers to ensure compliance with statutory obligations and resolve any service issues with the third-party administrator.
You will be responsible for the management of any data or regulatory breaches, which includes identifying and progressing any resultant process improvements with the third-party administrator. Where necessary, you will be responsible for data gathering to fulfil Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs) and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Another key responsibility will be managing complex member enquiries and escalations with the third-party administrator, including complaints. When required, this will include supporting the collation of evidence for Internal Dispute Resolution Procedure (IDRP) cases.
Responding to incidents is a central part of what we do. You may be asked to have an incident role and make yourself available to respond to incidents or provide business continuity support during an incident. This may attract an additional payment, and full training will be available to support you with your incident role.
The team
The Pensions team for the Environment Agency is part of the Strategy, Transformation and Assurance (STA) directorate.
A team of 24 based in our Head Office in Bristol. The team manages the EAPF’s administration, finance, governance, and investments, and serves c.40,000 scheme members and other stakeholders. We offer flexible and hybrid working. You will be expected to deputise for the Pensions Administration Manager when required.
Experience/skills required
You will need experience of LGPS administration, as well the ability to interpret complex pensions legislation and understand third-party administration arrangements. An understanding of pension administration systems is also important, as well as being able to identify process improvements and manage complex cases.
A good team player is essential, but also an excellent communicator. You will be required to work on your own initiative and respond to challenging and ad hoc situations, managing unexpected workloads and demands.
Sound analytical skills are key when analysing data and performance reporting. It is important to possess organisational skills and the ability to manage work to strict deadlines. Nurturing and maintaining solid working relationships with third-party contractors and stakeholders is also key.
You should have experience of Microsoft 365 applications, specifically Outlook, Word, Excel, and SharePoint.
Attainment to industry standard qualifications is desirable, but support to attaining such qualifications will be considered.
Contact and additional information
The location for this role is Horizon House, Bristol. Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (inc. job share) are welcomed. You will be expected to travel to London and Darlington on occasions.
Everyone starting a new role is welcomed to the team and given all the training and support needed. As part of the induction, you will be provided with the equipment required to perform the role.
For more information about working for the Agency, employee benefits and how to apply, please read the candidate pack and additional information provided.
For any questions, please contact David Williams (Pensions Manager) by telephoning 07747006926 or emailing david.j.williams@environment-agency.gov.uk