Rutherford Cross is partnering exclusively with the Weir Group PLC on the appointment of a Head of Pensions.

The Weir Group PLC. is a highly regarded FTSE 250, Glasgow headquartered engineering business with a global footprint spanning over 70 countries. The company employs more than 14,000 people and is organised into three sector focused divisions: Minerals, Oil & Gas and Flow Control.

With an auspicious history in Scottish industry the company has in recent year’s undergone significant growth both operationally and in terms of its geographical footprint. In 2015, the Group reported profits before tax, exceptional items and intangibles amortisation, of £220m against revenue of £1.9bn.

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced professional to join the business in the role of Head of Pensions.  Reporting to the Group Treasurer, the main purpose of the role is to ensure the Weir Group’s pension arrangements are managed according to scheme rules and regulatory requirements.  This is a rarely available and exciting opportunity to join the corporate function of one of Glasgow’s few remaining FTSE listed businesses.

Detailed responsibilities include:

• Ensuring all schemes are operated in accordance with all relevant external legislation, statutory requirements, trust, deeds, rules and internal scheme policies and procedures
• Effectively managing stakeholders including agreeing and monitoring service level agreements and costs with external advisers e.g. Scheme Administrators, Investment Advisers/Managers, Pension lawyers, Scheme Actuary, Auditors and internally with the HR and Finance departments
• Lead and manage specific projects e.g. data cleansing, implementation of benefit changes, implementation of new software, retirement workshops
• Managing the pensions risk register and ensure this feeds in to the integrated risk management structure of each scheme
• Ensure the delivery of a high quality administration service to the pension scheme Trustees and members in line with agreed quality and service level agreements with the scheme administrator
• Resolving complex or controversial issues that may arise with individual pension claims
• Responsible for ensuring that scheme investments are managed correctly and in line with Trustee agreements
• For each scheme arrange and manage annual external audits, production of the annual report & accounts and the completion and submission of annual returns to the Pensions Regulator
• Collate data for the annual group life insurance renewal and bi-annual review of the insurance market
• Act as point of contact for any life assurance claims
• Act as Secretary to the Trustee Boards.

Experience & personal attributes required:

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of UK legislation affecting occupational pensions and statutory reporting
• Strong commercial focus with ability to balance the potentially conflicting needs of the Group and the Trustees whilst maintaining the appropriate level of confidentiality and independence
• Good technical knowledge of financial management of pension schemes (actuarial impact, investments and different asset classes and associated risks)
• A strong communicator (written and oral) with an ability to provide clear, regular, and concise information to all parties
• An adaptable and flexible approach. Able to adjust quickly according to changing demands and priorities, drawing on experience, expertise and making the best use of advisers
• Strong problem solving skills to resolve issues arising from individual pension claims and to address risk management issues
• Capable of developing and maintaining influential relationships with senior management and Trustees
• Have a good thinking ability and by looking at the whole range of pensions issues be able to prioritise and consider requirements in the context of the Group
• Takes pride in their work and has a conscientious and diligent work ethic

What’s on offer:

Based in new state-of-the-art offices at 1 West Regent Street, the position offers a highly competitive basic salary, generous bonus structure, employer matched group pension contribution, life assurance and private medical insurance.

For a full Position Profile or to register your interest, please contact retained search partner Sandra McKinnon on [email protected] or call 0141 611 7770.

Closing date for applications is 24th February.

PLEASE NOTE ANY DIRECT OR THIRD PARTY APPLICATIONS RECEIVED BY THE WEIR GROUP WILL BE FORWARDED TO RUTHERFORD CROSS FOR INCLUSION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS.