The Pensions Regulator

Pensions Regulator launches alumni network

Ref: PN06-35
18 October 2006

• Pensions regulator celebrates launch of alumni network
• Network creates important two-way communication link
• Ongoing secondment programme ensures input from business

Senior figures from the Pensions Regulator met with ex-secondees in London today (Wednesday) to mark the launch of the regulator’s new Alumni Network.

The network will provide communication and networking links between the regulator and ex-secondees who have spent time at the organisation as part of the its ongoing secondment programme. This two-way process will allow the regulator to gain valuable business perspective, and enable firms to gain a better understanding of the work of the regulator.

Speaking at the launch, chief executive Tony Hobman said: “The network will provide an excellent platform on which we can build and maintain constructive relationships.

“We are deliberately bringing in people on secondment to supplement our core skills and resources, and appreciate the importance of having a regular injection of new ideas to keep us up to date with developments in the City.”

Mike Birch, a former secondee from the Royal Bank of Scotland, and Darren Redmayne, currently on secondment to the regulator from European investment bank Close Brothers, both spoke at the launch.

Redmayne said: “Working at the regulator has built a valuable bridge and will oil the wheels of communication. I have found the regulator to be collaborative and that it takes good practice from other organisations.”

Editor's notes

1. The launch of the Pensions Regulator's Alumni Network was held at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall, London
2. Photos of David Norgrove (chairman), Tony Hobman (chief executive), Charlie Massey (strategic development director) and June Mulroy (executive director delivery), who all attended the launch, are available on request from the contacts below.
3. To find out more about secondment to the Pensions Regulator telephone Phil Ashford on 01273 627252 or email phil.ashford@thepensionsregulator.gov.uk
4. The Pensions Regulator is the UK regulator for work-based pensions. The powers of the Pensions Regulator include the ability to:
   
   • collect more detailed scheme information;
   • issue improvement notices and third party notices, enabling the regulator to ensure problems are put right;
   • freeze a scheme that is at risk, while the regulator investigates;
   • prohibit trustees who are judged not fit and proper to carry out their duties
   • issue a contribution notice or financial support direction and
   • The Pensions Act 2004 also imposes a statutory obligation on 'whistleblowers' to report to us suspected breaches of the legislation.