At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global pensions and benefits strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Company: Join Synthomer, a leading supplier of high-performance polymers, based in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and employee engagement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on global pensions and benefits while driving continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in pensions and benefits with strong strategic and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 130000 £ per year.
Overview
Synthomer is a leading supplier of high‑performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives and health and protection.
Headquartered in London, UK, the company is publicly listed and employs around 3,900 people across five innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and lead the global pensions and benefits strategy, ensuring alignment with Synthomer's broader people and business objectives.
- Provide global oversight and direction for pensions and benefits policies, ensuring they remain competitive, sustainable and fit for purpose.
- Drive continuous improvement across pensions and benefits frameworks, processes and governance.
- Ensure pension and benefit plans are effectively governed, administered and compliant with local legislative requirements.
- Identify, evaluate and manage strategic pension and benefits risks and opportunities.
- Partner with the CFO and lead pensions and benefits reporting and recommendations to the Audit Committee.
- Provide strategic oversight and support for UK and US pension arrangements, including legacy defined benefit schemes, and develop and manage the roadmap towards buyout for legacy UK and US defined benefit pension plans.
- Lead the ongoing review and benchmarking of global benefits programmes to ensure market competitiveness and employee engagement.
- Partner with local HR teams to design, review and implement effective benefits programmes that meet local market needs.
- Build pensions and benefits expertise across the global HR community, sharing knowledge and best practice.
- Support mergers, acquisitions and business transformation activity through specialist pensions and benefits expertise.
- Contribute to broader Total Rewards initiatives, including pay transparency, reward harmonisation and employee experience enhancement.
About You
We’re looking for a collaborative and commercially minded pensions and benefits leader who combines deep technical expertise with strategic thinking and excellent stakeholder management skills.
Essential Experience
- 10+ years’ experience within pensions and benefits, gained in a global organisation or leading consultancy.
- Deep knowledge of the management, governance and operation of pension schemes in the UK and US.
- Proven experience developing and implementing global benefits strategies.
- Strong understanding of pensions and benefits governance, compliance and risk management.
- Experience working with pension trustees, governance committees and senior executive stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
Desirable Experience
- Experience leading a defined benefit pension scheme through a buyout process.
- Experience supporting pensions and benefits aspects of mergers, acquisitions or major corporate transactions.
- Personal Attributes
- Strategic, analytical and commercially focused.
- Strong continuous improvement mindset with the confidence to challenge established practices.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including preparing executive papers and delivering presentations to senior audiences.
- Ability to simplify complex topics and make them accessible and engaging.
- Collaborative approach with a proven ability to build strong cross‑functional relationships.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Global Pensions and Benefits in City of Westminster employer: Synthomer Plc
At Synthomer plc, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Harlow site where innovation meets compliance. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including competitive compensation and discretionary bonuses, alongside a culture that values inclusion and collaboration. Join us to be part of a team that not only prioritises regulatory excellence but also fosters personal and professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Global Pensions and Benefits in City of Westminster
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Synthomer Plc!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Synthomer Plc.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Global Pensions and Benefits in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Synthomer Plc. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Synthomer Plc and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Synthomer Plc. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Synthomer Plc's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Synthomer Plc
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Synthomer Plc.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Synthomer Plc will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Synthomer Plc and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
