At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the Central Pool Partnership Office, driving collaboration and governance.
- Company: Join a key public sector investment partnership shaping the future of LGPS.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to influence national investment strategies.
- Other info: Unique opportunity for strategic thinkers to drive positive outcomes in investment pooling.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-profile role with senior leaders across diverse sectors.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and strong stakeholder management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Work Style: Field Based (multi-regional role supporting LGPS Central Partner Funds) West Midlands Pension Fund with City of Wolverhampton Council as the host authority on behalf of the partner funds of LGPS Central.
Shape the future of one of the UK's largest public sector investment partnerships. We are seeking an exceptional leader to become our new Partnership Director. This is a rare opportunity to lead the Central Pool Partnership Office (CPPO) and act as a key ambassador for the partnership between the Partner Fund Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds and LGPS Central Limited.
Working across a complex and high-profile environment, you will strengthen collaboration, drive effective governance, influence strategic direction and ensure the collective interests of partner funds are represented and supported.
As the senior lead for partnership governance and stakeholder engagement, you will develop trusted relationships with senior officers, elected members, investment professionals and national stakeholders, helping to shape the future of LGPS investment pooling.
About the Role
Reporting to the Partner Fund Authorities, you will:
- Lead and develop the Central Pool Partnership Office, ensuring high-quality service delivery and value for money.
- Oversee the Inter Authority Agreement that underpins the partnership between the LGPS Central Partner Funds.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with senior stakeholders across local government, pensions and investment sectors.
- Chair governance forums where required, facilitating constructive discussion and effective decision-making.
- Lead stakeholder engagement, communications and partnership development activities.
- Represent the partnership at regional and national meetings, consultations and conferences.
- Drive continuous improvement and ensure robust governance, risk management and control arrangements are in place.
About You
We are looking for a strategic and influential leader with significant senior management experience gained within a complex public or private sector environment. You will be able to demonstrate:
- Experience of chairing high-level meetings and partnerships to achieve successful outcomes.
- Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to build consensus across diverse groups.
- Experience operating in politically sensitive environments.
- Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation and influencing skills.
- Experience leading organisational change, managing risk and driving continuous improvement.
- The ability to analyse complex information and provide clear strategic advice.
- Degree-level education or equivalent relevant professional experience.
- Knowledge of the Local Government Pension Scheme, investment pooling arrangements or local government finance would be advantageous.
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to influence a nationally significant investment partnership, working with senior leaders from a nationally diverse group of partner pension funds and helping to shape the future of LGPS investment pooling. If you are an accomplished relationship builder, strategic thinker and governance professional who can inspire confidence, build partnerships and drive positive outcomes, we would love to hear from you.
Interview Information
Closing Date: Sunday 23rd August 2026
Stage 1 Interviews: 2nd and 4th September 2026 Panel interview and presentation
Stage 2 Interviews: 18th September 2026
Please note: This post is subject to a Satisfactory Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Please note: The annual pay increases for 2026/27 for JNC Local Government Employees are currently being negotiated and, once agreed, will be effective from 1 April 2026.
Partnership Director - Central Pool employer: West Midlands Pension Fund
West Midlands Pension Fund is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and attention to detail. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to service improvement, making it a rewarding place to grow your career in pension administration.
Contact Details:
West Midlands Pension Fund Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partnership Director - Central Pool
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We think you need these skills to ace Partnership Director - Central Pool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Pension Fund
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✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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