Description
The London Borough of Havering is seeking to appoint an experienced and independent professional to join its Pension Fund governance framework as an Independent Person.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in supporting the governance, oversight and long-term success of a well-managed and financially resilient Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) fund. Working alongside elected members, officers and advisers, you will provide independent challenge, strategic insight and constructive scrutiny to help ensure the Fund continues to operate to the highest standards of governance and stewardship.
The Fund serves more than 22,000 members across 65 participating employers, providing an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the retirement security of thousands of scheme members while helping navigate the changing landscape of LGPS governance and regulation.
About the Role
Following reforms to the LGPS and the introduction of Regulation 53A, the Fund is required to appoint a named Independent Person. This non-voting role provides independent strategic advice, support and challenge to the Pension Committee, Senior Officers and the asset pool, helping strengthen governance arrangements and ensure compliance with statutory guidance.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the development and review of Fund strategies and policies.
- Providing objective scrutiny of advice presented to the Pension Committee.
- Supporting the monitoring of investment, administration and governance performance.
- Reviewing governance arrangements and supporting actions arising from governance reviews.
- Providing assurance to scheme members and employers through independent oversight.
- Supporting oversight of the Fund's relationship with London CIV and the implementation of the Fund's investment strategy.
About You
We are seeking a highly credible pensions professional with significant experience of pension fund governance, investments and administration.
Applicants should either:
- Hold a recognised qualification from the Pensions Management Institute (PMI);
- Be accredited by the Association of Professional Pension Trustees (APPT); or
- Demonstrate extensive experience and expertise within the LGPS environment.
You will bring:
- A strong understanding of LGPS governance and regulation.
- Knowledge of investment management and pension administration.
- Excellent judgement and the ability to provide independent challenge.
- Strong stakeholder management skills and experience working with elected members, senior officers and advisers.
Independence Requirements
Applicants must be demonstrably independent of the administering authority, the Pension Fund, the asset pool and the Fund's advisers. Eligibility and conflict-of-interest checks will form part of the appointment process.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the London Borough of Havering recruitment system, applications are open to both individuals and firms who are able to meet the independence and knowledge and skill requirements of this role, to apply: