Deputy Pensions Administration Manager

Focus Resourcing; Essex; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pensions administration firm in Chelmsford is seeking a Deputy Administration Manager. The role involves overseeing project completion and mentoring less experienced staff. Candidates should have expert knowledge in pensions administration, strong supervisory skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office tools. This position offers a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including a generous pension matching scheme and flexible holiday options.

Benefits

Competitive salary and annual discretionary bonus

25 days' holiday

Generous pension matching scheme

Healthcare plan

Flexible benefits scheme

Digital GP service

Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of pensions administration across all processes.
• Strong understanding of current pensions legislation.
• Proven supervisory and workflow management experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee annual and ad-hoc projects for defined benefit schemes.
• Monitor and ensure timely project completion.
• Review and quality-check work of less experienced administrators.

Skills

Expert knowledge of pensions administration

Strong understanding of current pensions legislation

Proven supervisory experience

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Strong people management skills

Demonstrable numerical aptitude

Education

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

Progression in relevant pensions qualification

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Overview

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

Responsibilities

• 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 review
• Deputise 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