Deputy Pensions Administration Manager

Focus Resourcing; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment agency in Chelmsford is seeking an experienced Deputy Administration Manager to oversee their pensions administration team. The role requires strong expertise in pensions administration and supervisory skills, alongside a deep understanding of current legislation. The successful candidate will manage projects, nurture client relationships, and lead a dedicated team offering excellent customer service. Benefits include a competitive salary and extensive perks.

Benefits

Competitive salary and annual discretionary bonus

25 days' holiday with buy/sell flexibility

Generous pension matching scheme

Healthcare plan and life assurance

Flexible benefits scheme

Digital GP service and paid volunteering days

Referral bonuses

Qualifications

• Expertise in defined benefit pension schemes processes.
• Experience in appraisals and performance monitoring.
• Strong people management capabilities and motivational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and monitor projects for defined benefit schemes.
• Quality-check work of less experienced administrators.
• Maintain strong client relationships and act as a partner.

Skills

Expert knowledge of pensions administration

Strong understanding of current pensions legislation

Proven supervisory and workflow management experience

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Strong people management skills

Demonstrable numerical aptitude

Education

Maths and English GCSE (Grade C/5 or above)

Progression in a relevant pensions qualification

Job description

Our client is seeking a Deputy Administration Manager to join their pensions administration team in Chelmsford. Our client prides themselves on ensuring each client receives a dedicated service, fostering strong relationships and delivering exceptional customer service

As Deputy Administration Manager your role will involve:

• Oversee annual and ad-hoc projects for defined benefit (DB) schemes
• Monitor and ensure timely completion of projects in line with legislative and client requirements
• Review and quality-check the work of less experienced administrators
• Monitor team accuracy, performance, and SLA adherence, taking action to ensure targets are achieved
• Conduct appraisals, probation reviews, mentoring sessions, and regular team catch-ups
• Ensure accurate use of the time recording system for chargeable and non-chargeable activities
• Maintain strong client relationships, acting as a credible partner for scheme trustees and sponsors
• Prepare, check, and issue administration bills
• Update change control logs, schedules, and internal spreadsheets
• Oversee breaches, errors, and complaints logs, ensuring prompt action and reviewDeputise at Administration Manager meetings when required
• Manage day-to-day workflow, holding regular meetings with senior team members to resolve issues and maintain progress

The person:

Essential:

• Expert knowledge of pensions administration (defined benefit schemes) across all processes: leavers, retirements, deaths, transfers, and reporting
• Strong understanding of current pensions legislation and regulatory frameworks (Pensions and Finance Acts)
• Proven supervisory and workflow management experience, including appraisals, performance monitoring, and recruitment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Strong people management skills, with the ability to motivate and support staff
• Demonstrable numerical aptitude through work or academic achievements

Desirable:

• Third-party pensions administration experience (preferred)
• Experience presenting at prospect pitches or trustee meetings
• Commercial awareness and business insight

Qualifications

• Minimum: Maths and English GCSE (Grade C/5 or above, or equivalent
• Desirable: Progression in a relevant pensions qualification (CPC, QPA, DPC, RPC, APMI)

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and annual discretionary bonus
• 25 days' holiday (with buy/sell flexibility)
• Generous pension matching scheme
• Healthcare plan, life assurance, and employee discounts.
• Flexible benefits scheme and employee assistance program
• Digital GP service and paid volunteering days
• Referral bonuses for introducing suitable candidates