At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert pensions advice for the Water Reform Programme and manage pension transitions.
- Company: Join the Defra Group, a leader in environmental reform and HR expertise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of water regulation while making a real impact on environmental goals.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of pensions law and experience in HR and change management.
The predicted salary is between 56375 - 56375 € per year.
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.
Person specification
You Will Need To Demonstrate The Following Essential Skills:
- broad and detailed HR, Pension and Employment Law knowledge and experience of applying policy in a practical environment
- logical decision making, effective listening, clarity of thought and an excellent understanding of business priorities
- strong analytical ability which can be applied to evaluate and make recommendations along with the ability to consider internal and external influences
- excellent communication skills (written and oral) tailored effectively to manage challenging stakeholders and situations
The following demonstrable HR and leadership experience is essential for this role:
- knowledge and experience of Civil Service and/or Local Government Pension Scheme and Compensation schemes legislation from an employing authority and administering authority’s perspective
- experience of change management including COSOP and TUPE and understanding of the Pensions implications included in staff transfers
- experience of working across HR with the breadth and depth of HR expertise necessary for working at a senior level
- experience of managing and influencing relationships across 3rd party providers to ensure delivery of administration services
Alongside your salary of £56,375, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs contributes £16,331 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
Pensions Lead - Water Reform employer: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Joining the Defra Group Pension team as a Pensions Lead offers you the chance to work in a dynamic and impactful environment, contributing to the high-profile Water Reform Programme. With a strong focus on employee development, we provide comprehensive training and support, fostering a collaborative culture that values adaptability and initiative. Our commitment to a modern regulatory system not only enhances your professional growth but also allows you to play a vital role in shaping the future of environmental governance.
Contact Detail:
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensions Lead - Water Reform
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the pensions and HR sectors, especially those involved in the Water Reform Programme. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨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 be the go-to expert in the room, so practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your adaptability! The Water Reform Programme is fast-paced, so be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed change in previous roles. Share specific examples that highlight your ability to prioritise and respond to shifting 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 take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensions Lead - Water Reform
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with pensions, especially in relation to TUPE/COSOP processes. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of the Water Reform Programme.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on demonstrating your knowledge of the Civil Service and Local Government Pension Schemes. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve applied this expertise in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us understand your thought process and decision-making skills, which are crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people quickly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
✨Know Your Pensions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Civil Service and Local Government Pension Schemes. Be ready to discuss how these schemes work, especially in relation to TUPE and COSOP processes. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to showcase your analytical abilities during the interview. Think of examples where you've evaluated complex situations and made recommendations. Being able to articulate your thought process will impress the interviewers, especially given the analytical nature of the role.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice your communication skills. Be clear and concise when discussing your experiences and how you’ve managed challenging situations. Tailoring your communication style to different audiences is key, so think about how you can demonstrate this.
✨Show Your Adaptability
The Water Reform programme is fast-paced, so be prepared to discuss times when you've had to adapt quickly to changing demands. Highlight your ability to prioritise effectively and take initiative, as these traits are essential for success in this dynamic environment.
