Pensions Management Success: Reflecting on Two Years of Growth and Collaboration

As we wrap up 2024 (seriously, how did that happen?), it feels like the perfect moment to pause, look back, and reflect on our successes on what has been a whirlwind two years in the Dalriada Pensions Management team. What started as a small but mighty squad with big dreams of making life easier for in-house pensions teams and their trustee boards has turned into a full-blown success story. We’ve grown, evolved, and shared plenty of laughs, all while staying ahead of the constant twists and turns of the pensions world – because staying on our toes is just part of the job (and it keeps things interesting, to say the least).

From Small Beginnings to Big Achievements

When we began, we were a small focused and determined team with one clear mission: to support pension teams who needed a better work/life balance. Now, we’ve grown into a thriving team of 20 talented pension professionals. Many of us have walked in the shoes of in-house pension managers, so we truly understand the challenges, the nuances, and even the occasional head-in-hands moments that come with the role. We also recognise how important collaboration with other internal functions is and remain mindful of each company’s unique ethos in everything we do.

We’ve built a reputation for being an extension of our clients in-house teams, for filling absence or recruitment gaps, sharing expertise on managing DB and DC schemes and even tipping into the wider benefits arena. Over the past two years, we’ve added more than 40 schemes to our list of clients we proudly support – many with assets over £1bn. And these aren’t just numbers; the feedback we receive is proof that our approach works. We’re not just another adviser to manage – we’re like the extra pair of hands you didn’t know you needed but now can’t live without. That’s the essence of pensions management success.

2024’s Greatest Hits

One of this year’s shining moments was working with a large in-house team during an intense project while they were a person down. We stepped in, handled the day-to-day management, and let their senior team focus on the big stuff. By the time they hired their new recruit, the project was in great shape, the backlog cleared, and their stress levels were (mostly) back to normal.

Flexibility is key to our offering. Whether it’s embedding our team members on-site to help clear backlogs or stepping in for ad-hoc projects, we’ve worked hard to get it right. The feedback has been really positive, with trustees seeing smoother operations and being able to concentrate on the strategic items and pension managers finally able to reclaim a bit more of their evenings. 

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Our secret ingredient? Collaboration and communication. Daily team meetings are where the magic happens – we share ideas, tackle challenges, and bond over our hobbies (though my dream of converting the team to strategic board gaming remains just that…a dream). This open and supportive culture underpins our pensions management success, and it’s no surprise that most of our new clients come through recommendations from happy pension managers.

And in one unforgettable twist, one of those “happy pension managers” who worked in-house on their own, even joined our team and the trustees asked them to bring their scheme with them. That’s when you know you’re doing something right.

An Award-Winning Year

This year brought a personal high point: being named Mentor of the Year at the Professional Pensions Rising Star Awards. The nomination alone, especially from my team, was an incredible honour. Winning? Well, let’s just say I was so focused on not tripping over in my rarely-worn heels as I walked up to that huge stage, that luckily I didn’t notice the giant 20ft projection of my head until I looked back at the photos later. No one needed to see that!

The award isn’t just about me, though. It’s a reflection of the team culture we’ve worked hard to build; a culture where mentorship, growth, and mutual respect thrive. I am deeply grateful to those who have mentored and guided me throughout my career – it’s their support and encouragement that have shaped my journey. 

We were also proud to be finalists for Team of the Year at both the Rising Star Awards, after some quick math and awkward questions to confirm most of the team are indeed under 40 years of age – and the Pensions Management Institute (PMI) Pinnacle Awards.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look to 2025, we’re excited to continue delivering pensions management success for our clients. We’re ready to innovate, enhance our services, and stay ahead of the curve in the pensions world. We also plan to continue growing our team to meet increasing demand while investing in training and mentorship to ensure every team member thrives both professionally and personally. Plus, we’re looking forward to connecting with more of you at conferences and events throughout the year – hope to see you there!

Shout out to Our Amazing Clients

None of this would be possible without our clients, who entrust us with the critical responsibility of managing their pension schemes and warmly welcome us as an extension of their team. We’re incredibly grateful for the partnerships we’ve built and the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of their team members and scheme members.

As we reflect on the last two years, one thing is clear: the journey is just beginning. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a vision for the future, we’re ready to embrace 2025 with the same energy and passion that have brought us this far.

Thank you for trusting us, collaborating with us, and letting us be part of your teams. Here’s to another year of partnership, progress, and maybe – just maybe – a little less upheaval in the pensions landscape next year.

Cheers to 2025 – it’s going to be a bright and exciting year for all! 🎉