At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance framework for pensions, ensuring adherence to regulations and driving best practices.
- Company: Railpen, a key player in managing £34 billion in pension assets.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days leave, generous bonuses, and private medical insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while supporting the community.
- Qualifications: Expertise in UK pension schemes and compliance programme design required.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and a culture of collaboration and trust.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead the development of a second‑line compliance framework to oversee Railpen’s continued compliance with its regulatory obligations under its relevant pension regulations and legislation, primarily determined by the Pensions Regulator ("TPR"). This is a permanent role offering hybrid working, with London and Darlington considered as base locations.
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK’s largest and longest established pension funds. Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
As our Compliance Manager (Pensions), you’ll take ownership of the second‑line compliance framework relevant to Railpen’s regulatory obligations under the applicable pensions regulations. In your first year, you’ll lead the design and implementation of a risk‑based plan of continuous and thematic second line monitoring, creating strong foundations for future success. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders, providing expert advice, developing policies and procedures, and designing meaningful management information for relevant governance forums. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact, driving best practice and continuous improvement in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
The ideal candidate will have strong subject matter expertise in UK DB and DC occupational pension schemes, coupled with a deep understanding of TPR regulation and occupational pension scheme legislation. A background in designing and implementing compliance programmes, conducting risk assessments, and developing policies and monitoring frameworks is essential. Confidence in providing regulatory advice and the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of seniority will be key to success. Independence and ownership of complex compliance projects should come naturally, supported by a track record of delivering results. Alongside technical capability, the role calls for behaviours that foster collaboration and trust. A pragmatic and balanced approach is vital, applying regulation in a practical, solution‑focused way. The successful candidate will demonstrate proactive thinking, strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, and an ability to build relationships across teams and seniority levels. Resilience and adaptability are important, as is the capacity to thrive in a changing environment and introduce new ways of working.
Our values of integrity, community and alignment are the guiding principles that influence our behaviour. They help us make decisions and shape our relationships with others. They’re what we stand for. You will actively demonstrate our values, helping to create a safe environment, putting the needs of the community above oneself and, through a culture of 'fair challenge', align to the best interests of our members.
What we can offer you:
- A competitive salary (depending on experience)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous annual bonus plan
- Membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Benefit arrangement
- 4× Life Assurance cover
- Colleague referral scheme
- Health & Wellbeing benefits including Private Medical Insurance and Employee assistance programme
- Lifestyle support including hybrid and flexible working, generous family leave, and paid volunteering days
Please apply via the apply button or visit Careers at Railpen by 5pm on Friday 21st November 2025. Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Compliance Manager (Pensions) employer: Railpen
Contact Detail:
Railpen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Compliance Manager (Pensions)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the pensions and compliance sectors on LinkedIn. A friendly message can go a long way, and you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Railpen’s values and recent news. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with our mission and how you can contribute to our community-focused approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common compliance interview questions. We want to see your expertise shine, so be ready to discuss your experience with TPR regulations and how you've successfully implemented compliance frameworks in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining the Railpen team.
We think you need these skills to ace Compliance Manager (Pensions)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Compliance Manager role. Highlight your experience with UK DB and DC pension schemes, and show how your skills align with Railpen's values and the specific requirements mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Expertise: Don’t hold back on demonstrating your subject matter expertise in TPR regulation and compliance programmes. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate how you've successfully implemented compliance frameworks or conducted risk assessments.
Be Personable: Remember, we’re looking for someone who can engage with stakeholders at all levels. Use your application to convey your ability to build relationships and foster collaboration. A friendly tone can go a long way in making a positive impression!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Railpen
✨Know Your Regulations
Make sure you brush up on the latest TPR regulations and occupational pension scheme legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the rules, but that you can apply them practically in your role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've designed compliance programmes or conducted risk assessments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve influenced and engaged stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to share strategies you’ve used to build relationships and foster collaboration, as this is key for the Compliance Manager position.
✨Demonstrate Your Values
Railpen values integrity, community, and alignment. Reflect on how you embody these values in your work. Prepare to discuss how you’ve put the needs of the community first and how you align your actions with the best interests of members.