Creating a new generation of Trustees to drive change in the pensions industry
We’re looking for a new generation of Trustees
Our Trustee Accelerator Programme gives people from different backgrounds or with different characteristics the opportunity to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to pensions.
We’ve partnered with the Pensions Management Institute (PMI), the UK’s largest professional development organisation for pensions professionals, to create a unique learning experience that trains a select number of people to become Trustee Ready.
Because it’s only when we harness the views of people from all walks of life that we can truly drive change and build a pensions industry that works for everyone.
Download our full prospectus
Get a detailed look at what’s in our Trustee Accelerator Programme and course schedule.
We have been inundated with expressions of interest. Given the limited number of places for our pilot of this programme, we will be using a targeted recruitment process led by a dedicated recruitment agency for external candidates.
What makes our Trustee Accelerator Programme different?
Our Trustee Accelerator Programme is designed for people from diverse backgrounds, with different lived experiences, who may view the world differently and can help us support more people towards better financial futures.
Aspiring Trustees don’t need any experience in the pensions industry to sign up – we’ll start with the basics and provide support at every step. Plus, we’ll cover all learning and exam costs too.
Our programme is designed with flexibility in mind, meaning trainees can study around their job, caring responsibilities, and commitments.
What’s in the programme?
Our two-year programme gives people all the skills and knowledge they need to become a Trustee. We use a holistic training approach to support different learning styles, so that everyone can get the most out of our programme.
Introduction to pensions
Our learning sessions will teach trainees about the fundamentals of the UK pensions system.
Online learning
Trainees get access to a Standard Life-sponsored PMI Academy, where they’ll learn all about Trusteeship.
Ongoing support
Trainees will be mentored by Trustees and pension professionals, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.
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Our programme at a glance
How long is the course?
Two years
When does it start/end?
April 2024–March 2026
How much does the course cost?
We’ll sponsor trainees throughout the programme and cover all learning and exam costs
How much time will I spend studying?
On average two hours per week
How will I be assessed?
Through a mock Trustee meeting and final exams
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Get the qualifications and experience to become a Trustee
Not only will our programme give trainees a wealth of knowledge and insight into the world of pensions, they’ll get the qualifications and experience they need to become a Trustee, including:
Qualifications from the PMI, including the Award in Pension Trusteeship and Certificate in Pension Trusteeship
A new network of pension professionals and Trustees
Experience of Trustee Board meetings and/or governance meetings
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Frequently asked questions
Trustee Accelerator Programme FAQs
Our programme helps tap into the potential of under-represented people, including those who have no pensions knowledge. We want to help open doors that aren’t accessible through usual routes, and build up people’s knowledge and expertise in pension Trusteeship.
We’re always looking to appoint diverse Trustees who are reflective of our customers and communities.
We believe that diverse and inclusive governance boards – with different perspectives and lived experiences – can make better decisions. This can help us deliver good retirement outcomes for members and help them feel a little more certainty about their financial future.
In a pension scheme, a Trustee is a person or organisation who holds assets in a trust for the beneficiaries – or members – of that scheme.
Trustees are responsible for ensuring that the pension scheme is run properly and that members’ benefits are secure. For more information, visit The Pension Regulator’s website.
Our programme gives you a full understanding of how to become a Trustee. You’ll gain enhanced insight into the duties of Trustees, how pensions work, and how to navigate decision making and risk management.
Once you’ve completed our programme, you’ll get professional qualifications and a Trustee Ready certificate from the Pensions Management Institute. This will provide you with the skills, board experience, networks, and confidence to apply for Trustee roles in the future.
Joining our programme FAQs
No – you won’t need to pay any costs. Standard Life will fully fund the programme over the two years, including training sessions, exams, and expenses.
You’ll likely spend an average of two hours each week to complete the programme.
You’ll have a pensions professional buddy to help you settle into the programme, provide connections to resources, and help you build networks. You’ll also have a Trustee mentor to support your development.
Standard Life is part of Phoenix Group, and together we strive to make sure our workplace is diverse, equitable and inclusive, and which recognises and celebrates all differences. We want to create a place where all colleagues are treated with respect and dignity and able to bring their whole self to work.
How long is the course?
When does it start/end?
How much does the course cost?
How much time will I spend studying?
How will I be assessed?
