Professional trustees sit on pension scheme boards, ensuring schemes are well governed, properly funded, and run in members’ best interests. They oversee investment strategy, risk, compliance, and ensure pensions are paid accurately and on time. There is no single path into the profession, with many trustees coming from pensions, finance, actuarial, legal, or consulting backgrounds—and some discovering the sector unexpectedly.
Phil Williams, Associate Director
After nearly 25 years in consulting, Phil moved into trusteeship. “On a day-to-day basis, we ensure our schemes deliver as promised for members. Remembering the human impact behind the work is vital—you are working on behalf of so many people whose futures will be shaped by your decisions.”
His advice to those considering the career is: “Be open-minded. It’s a career that develops you personally and professionally, and there’s plenty of fun along the way. Completing a scheme journey or project from start to finish is highly rewarding.”
Kelly Newton, Client Director
Kelly moved from accountancy into pensions and later into governance and trustee work. “One day you can be designing a member communication, the next tackling a technical issue or debating strategy with the board. It’s incredibly varied.” Her advice: “Technical knowledge can be learned, but curiosity, confidence to ask questions, and humility are key. The people you work with make it an inspiring career.”
Fizza Qasim, Associate Director
Fizza discovered her career in pensions after graduating in Economics. “I was drawn to the mix of technical detail, strategic thinking, and the real impact the work has on people’s lives,” she says. “No two days are the same. The variety, problem-solving, and seeing the difference our work makes for members make the role genuinely fulfilling. Completing a project from start to finish is highly rewarding.” Her advice is: “Learn from colleagues and mentors, ask questions, and get involved. Trusteeship is an evolving career where your contributions truly matter.”
Curtis Mitchell, Client Director
Curtis challenges misconceptions about the role: “Trusteeship isn’t just attending quarterly meetings. Pension schemes need proactive management to ensure members are paid correctly and receive excellent service.” He adds: “Every day is different, the role is fulfilling, and you can see the difference you make. Be proactive, willing to learn, and a good listener and communicator.”
Katie Smith, Manager
Katie started unexpectedly after qualifying as a hairdresser. “I was offered both a salon job and a pensions admin role on the same day—and chose pensions. It all turned out well.” She says: “Every scheme is different, and making a difference to members is what I enjoy most.” Her advice: “Be adaptable, personable, thorough, and get exposure wherever you can—trusteeship could be the right career for you.”
