At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the PPF, shaping the future of pensions and ensuring financial security for millions.
- Company: The Pension Protection Fund, a key player in the UK’s pension system.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, opportunity to make a societal impact, and work with a talented team.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace, with a commitment to professional excellence.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of financial stewardship and public service, making a real difference.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in complex organisations, ideally in financial services or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
Lead one of the UK’s most important financial institutions. The Pension Protection Fund (PPF) plays a critical role at the heart of the UK’s pension system, providing security and peace of mind to millions of members of defined benefit pension schemes. Established to protect people’s retirement incomes when sponsoring employers become insolvent, the PPF is a respected, high‑performing public body with a strong balance sheet, a clear mandate and a vital purpose. We are now seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next phase. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a unique institution operating at scale, combining public service, financial stewardship and long‑term investment expertise.
The role: As CEO, you will be accountable for the leadership, performance and strategic direction of the PPF. Working closely with the Board, including the Chair, and engaging with government, regulators and industry stakeholders, you will ensure the PPF continues to deliver against its statutory objectives while adapting to a changing pensions and economic landscape. With over £31 billion assets under management, the PPF is a significant fund, one of the largest in the UK, with a sophisticated investment strategy and a strong reputation for innovation and resilience. At the same time, it delivers vital customer services to its members and works closely with trustees, employers and advisers across the pension’s ecosystem.
Key responsibilities include:
- Setting and delivering the PPF’s long‑term strategy in line with its public purpose and evolving policy environment
- Ensuring the organisation remains financially robust, operationally effective and focused on delivering excellent outcomes for members
- Leading a high‑performing executive team and fostering a culture of accountability, inclusivity and continuous improvement
- Maintaining strong relationships with government, regulators and key stakeholders, influencing policy where appropriate
- Upholding the highest standards of governance, risk management and transparency
- Acting as a visible and credible ambassador for the PPF externally
The candidate: We are seeking an exceptional leader with the credibility, judgement and strategic insight to lead a complex, high‑profile organisation with a strong public service ethos. You will bring:
- A proven track record of senior leadership in a large, complex organisation, ideally within financial services, pensions, insurance, asset management or a related regulated environment
- Strong strategic capability, with experience navigating change and delivering long‑term value
- Deep understanding of financial management, investment principles and risk oversight
- Experience engaging effectively with Boards, regulators, government and senior stakeholders
- A clear commitment to public service and delivering positive outcomes for customers or beneficiaries
- Outstanding communication and influencing skills, with the ability to represent the organisation at the highest levels
Personal qualities are critical. You will be a collaborative and inclusive leader, capable of inspiring confidence and trust across the organisation and externally. You will demonstrate integrity, sound judgement and resilience, along with the ability to balance competing priorities in a dynamic environment.
Why join the PPF? The PPF is widely regarded as a leading organisation within the UK pensions landscape, known for its professionalism, innovation and strong performance. It offers a unique blend of public purpose and financial expertise, with the opportunity to make a tangible difference to people’s lives. As CEO, you will:
- Lead an organisation with real societal impact
- Work with a highly capable Board and executive team
- Shape the future of pensions protection in the UK
- Oversee significant assets with a sophisticated investment strategy
- Operate at the intersection of policy, markets and customer outcomes
Further information: This role is based in London, with flexible working arrangements available. The PPF is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The closing date for this role is Friday 31st July 2026 at 23:55. For more information and to apply, please visit www.odgers.com/96318.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in Croydon
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Pension Protection Fund.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Pension Protection Fund's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pension Protection Fund
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Pension Protection Fund.
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Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Pension Protection Fund will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Pension Protection Fund employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
