Assistant Pensions Manager in Essex

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Assistant Pensions Manager to join our Finance team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in ensuring the effective administration of pension arrangements across Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Fire and Rescue Authority. You will support the Payroll and Pensions Manager in delivering accurate pension calculations, statutory returns, and compliance with legislation. Acting as the key point of contact for pension queries, you will also manage casework, oversee processes for service improvement, and deputise for the Manager when required. You will have line management responsibility for the Pensions Officer, providing guidance, coaching, and support to ensure high standards of service delivery.

What You Will Be Working On

• Ensure accurate pension calculations and compliance with regulations.
• Oversee checking processes and maintain auditable records.
• Prepare statutory returns and reports to meet deadlines.
• Act as the main liaison with Essex Pension Fund and internal stakeholders.
• Manage casework and support Internal Dispute Resolution Processes.
• Provide training and maintain clear process documentation.
• Line management of the Pensions Officer, ensuring effective performance and development.
• Contribute to projects and service improvements under the direction of the Payroll and Pensions Manager.

What Are We Looking For?

You will have strong knowledge of pension and HMRC regulations, excellent numerical, analytical and presentational skills, and experience in interpreting legislation, preparing reports and checking pension calculations. You will be confident using HR and Payroll systems using Excel to an advanced level, with the ability to communicate clearly and build constructive relationships. If you are an internal candidate, you must have discussed your application with your line manager and confirmed with them there are no outstanding issues of conduct or performance. This will be verified prior to shortlisting.

How to apply

You will be required to submit a CV detailing a minimum of five years employment and / or education history, along with a supporting statement of no more than 750 words that demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria detailed in the Person Specification. You may submit this either as a word document, pdf, or an mp3 (voice note) or mp4 (video), however the word count of your supporting statement should not exceed 750 words no matter which format you choose to present your application. You may attach separate documents (such as qualifications) should you wish. Your CV and additional documents will be referred to in shortlisting to confirm eligibility (e.g., your current role and any existing qualifications).