At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage SSAS schemes and provide expert guidance to member-trustees.
- Company: Hartley Pensions, a leading SIPP and SSAS pensions operator in Bristol.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and meaningful impact during a transitional phase.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and play a key role in shaping the future of pensions.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years in SSAS administration or relevant governance experience.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Rate: Competitive (subject to experience & interview competencies)
Location: Bristol, BS1
Hours: 35 hours a week (full-time), Monday to Friday
Hartley Pensions seek an experienced pension specialist with extensive experience in trustee administration and HMRC compliance to help the running of our SSAS department during an important transitional phase for the business. If you are a Senior SIPP Specialist, a Corporate Pension Administrator, or a Trust Tax/Governance professional who understands complex trustee structures and HMRC reporting, this role offers the perfect structured pathway to upgrade your career into the high-value SSAS market.
Who are Hartley Pensions? Hartley Pensions are a SIPP and SSAS pensions operator based in central Bristol. Since July 2022, the company has been in a trading administration. Under the administration of UHY Hacker Young, Hartley Pensions continues to operate an essential service to clients whilst preparing to transfer members to new UK-based operators and wind down the business.
Role
- Acting as the primary point of contact for member-trustees and contributing to the technical oversight of SSAS schemes, you will manage a case load of work whilst supporting the wider team in ensuring the delivery of high-quality outcomes and an exceptional service is always provided.
- Your duties include (but are not restricted to) the following:
- Act as the primary point of contact for member-trustees, providing technical guidance on key areas such as scheme structural changes, member retirements, death benefits, SSAS loan backs and transfers out.
- Maintaining an accurate log of post and ensuring this is updated daily.
- Providing technical and administrative support to the members of the SSAS Administration Team. This will often at times involve supporting members of the wider business in our SIPP function.
- Submission of SSAS & SIPP HMRC annual scheme returns and SIPP return of annual information, also prepare and submit any event reports to HMRC for the SSAS and SIPP schemes when required.
- Ensure the timely submission of Pension Scheme Returns (PSRs), Event Reports, and Accounting for Tax (AFT) forms.
- Complete and submit the SA970 Tax Claim to HMRC for any SSAS schemes that have paid tax on their scheme investments.
- Ensure all schemes are registered with the Information Commissioner and deal with annual renewals.
- Complete and submit the FCA RegData Returns for the SIPP Schemes, including Complaints, Product Sales Report etc.
- Deal with communications to and from clients, solicitors, accountants and intermediaries whether in writing, by email or over the phone.
- Oversee high-level scheme investments, specifically commercial property acquisitions, land purchases, and connected-party transactions.
- Deal with payments from the scheme accounts and ensure that all payments comply with the company Client Money policy.
- Carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required.
About You
- Ideally a minimum 2-3 years’ experience in SSAS administration.
- If you do not have direct SSAS experience, your CV must demonstrate a proven experience working at board or trustee level, managing client expectations, and handling corporate governance.
- A strong track record of navigating complex tax reporting frameworks (ideally pension-specific PSRs, though high-end trust tax reporting will be considered).
- Demonstrable comprehensive knowledge of SSAS schemes from the moment of new business to the transferring out of a scheme.
- Self-organised with a competent numeracy and literacy level, and an ability to pay strong attention to detail.
What we offer
- A highly competitive rate: We pay within the top 10% of employers in the industry.
- Meaningful impact: A rare opportunity to play a leading part in assisting a business through a crucial transitional period.
- Hybrid working: We allow hybrid options (up to 2 days from home a week) after successful completion of training period.
Recruitment Process
- Hartley Pensions follow a two-stage recruitment process.
- A 60-minute interview with some competency-based questions.
At Hartley pensions diversity is important to us. Growing, maintaining and promoting a diverse team is a top priority for us. We actively encourage individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply. Join us in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
Website: To find out more about Hartley Pensions, please visit: https://www.uhy-uk.com/hartley-pensions-limited-administration
Senior SSAS Specialist employer: Hartley Pensions Limited
Hartley Pensions is an excellent employer, offering a competitive rate within the top 10% of the industry while providing meaningful opportunities to make a significant impact during a crucial transitional phase. With a commitment to hybrid working and a strong focus on diversity, employees can thrive in a supportive environment that values their contributions and fosters professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SSAS Specialist
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
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Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like Hartley Pensions Limited. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
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✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like Hartley Pensions Limited. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SSAS Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in Hartley Pensions Limited and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show Hartley Pensions Limited how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hartley Pensions Limited
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
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If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with Hartley Pensions Limited.
✨Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
✨Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with Hartley Pensions Limited's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
