At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead pensions advice for the Water Reform Programme and ensure smooth transitions for colleagues.
- Company: Join the Defra Group, a leader in environmental reform and HR expertise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of water regulation while making a real impact on environmental goals.
- Qualifications: Experience in pensions and strong team collaboration skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56375 - 69105 £ per year.
£56,375 to £69,105 per year, National: £56,375 - £62,830 London: £62,000 - £69,105
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time
Disability Confident: Yes
Closing Date: 12/06/2026
The Defra Group Pension team is responsible for providing an HR expert service to Core Defra, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Rural Payments Agency, Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the Environment Agency, and Natural England, as well as several other smaller agencies and bodies.
Pensions is a complex and challenging area in HR, and the team consists of subject matter experts and specialists who provide pension expertise and guidance. We are looking for a Pension Lead to work within our small dynamic Team.
This role will initially be focussed on providing expert Pensions advice and guidance to the high-profile Water Reform Programme, as well as playing a key role in the potential transfer of colleagues to a new regulator. Following the Independent Water Commission Review and its 88 recommendations, Defra is leading a major reform to reset the water sector, including the creation of a new regulator. This is a flagship programme backed by significant investment and a mandate for bold change.
The People Workstream sits at the heart of this reform, ensuring the workforce, structures, and culture are ready to deliver, and this role is your opportunity to be part of shaping the foundations of a new regulatory landscape. Your work will directly contribute to building a modern, resilient regulatory system that supports environmental and economic goals.
You will input into pensions modelling for proposed Target Operating Models, as well as liaise with the Government Actuary’s Department, legal teams, wider Water Reform colleagues and other key stakeholders. This will require knowledge of pensions considerations and actions during TUPE/COSOP (Cabinet Office Statement of Practice) processes, as well as a good understanding of the Civil Service Pension Scheme and/or the Local Government Pension Scheme.
The Water reform programme is a fast‑paced environment and, to be successful, we need to respond quickly to changing demand and priorities while maintaining high standards and professionalism. This is a complex, high‑profile role and requires an individual who is adaptable, able to prioritise effectively and takes the initiative, while being an effective team player.
You will (but not limited to):
- act as a specialist advisor for the Water Reform programme, representing the team in all appropriate Programme meetings
- oversee the implementation of all pension requirements for the Water Reform programme, including all activities that may be required for a potential TUPE/COSOP process, to ensure the smooth transition of colleague’s pension requirements
- input expert advice as needed to the Water Reform Bill
- contribute towards cost modelling for proposed Target Operating Models
- liaise with wider expert services teams involved in the potential transfer of colleagues to the new regulator
- liaise with Pension Scheme Actuaries and legal advisors on behalf of the Water Reform team where necessary
- offer expert input to the Communications Programme and handle pensions queries from all parties as part of any consultation process.
Outside of the Water Reform project, as capacity allows, you may also be asked to contribute to the wider Pensions team to:
- provide policy advice to pensions colleagues, 3rd party providers and wider HR and carrying out regular quality assurance on current policies to ensure that they are up to date and in line with wider policy changes
- manage relationships with the outsourced third‑party pensions administration providers, HR and Payroll administration providers and expert service colleagues
- lead on other pension transfer and 3rd generation transfers into the Civil Service and Environment Agency pension schemes
- oversee the transition of closed pension fund administration including implementation of process and budgetary accountability.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.
Pensions Lead - Water Reform in Birmingham employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
Joining the Defra Group as a Pensions Lead offers you the chance to be part of a dynamic team at the forefront of significant water sector reform. With a commitment to employee growth and a supportive work culture, we provide opportunities for professional development while ensuring a collaborative environment that values adaptability and initiative. Located in a fast-paced setting, this role not only allows you to contribute to meaningful change but also offers competitive salaries and a strong focus on inclusivity as a proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Lead - Water Reform in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the pensions field, especially those involved in water reform. A friendly chat can lead to insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of TUPE/COSOP processes and the Civil Service Pension Scheme. We want you to shine when discussing how you can contribute to the Water Reform Programme!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your adaptability! In a fast-paced environment like this, being able to pivot and prioritise is key. Share examples from your past where you've successfully managed changing demands.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Lead - Water Reform in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Pensions Lead role. Highlight your experience with pensions, especially in relation to TUPE/COSOP processes and any relevant regulatory knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise in pensions! Include specific examples of how you've provided advice or guidance in previous roles, particularly in complex environments. This will help us see your potential impact on the Water Reform Programme.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your capabilities.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
✨Know Your Pensions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of pensions, especially the Civil Service Pension Scheme and Local Government Pension Scheme. Familiarise yourself with TUPE/COSOP processes and be ready to discuss how these relate to the Water Reform Programme.
✨Show Your Adaptability
This role is in a fast-paced environment, so be prepared to demonstrate your ability to adapt to changing demands. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully navigated change or prioritised tasks under pressure.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in liaising with various stakeholders, such as actuaries and legal teams. Be ready to discuss how you’ve managed relationships and communicated effectively in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the position.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the Water Reform Programme and the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
