Pensions Administrator

Pensions administrators are responsible for the day-to-day administration of pension schemes and life insurance policies. They make sure that new and existing customers' policies are accurately maintained and serviced.

Their responsibilities can vary depending on the size and structure of their organisation. Most administrators have a customer services role, dealing with enquiries and carrying out the accompanying administration.

Pensions administrators usually work 35 hours a week, Monday to Friday. There are good opportunities for part-time work and job sharing. Administrators usually work in an office, which is generally clean, well lit and air-conditioned.

Salaries may range from around £14,000 up to around £40,000 a year.

A pensions administrator should:

• be organised and efficient
• have excellent record-keeping skills
• pay attention to detail
• be polite and friendly, with a sympathetic manner
• be interested in administrative tasks.

There are opportunities for pensions administrators in most towns and cities throughout the UK. Employers include insurance and life assurance companies, and benefits consultancies that manage schemes for other organisations. As well as commercial companies, pensions administrators are also employed by local and national government, and other public bodies that manage their own pension schemes.

Entry requirements vary widely. Many employers ask for at least four GCSEs (A*-C) including English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. The Financial Services Authority requires all pensions companies to assess staff carrying out certain kinds of work. As a result, pensions administrators may need to take a professional qualification.

During their first year, pensions administrators usually gain experience in different departments. They work with senior administrators and learn about the organisation's products and services by a combination of on-the-job training and in-house training programmes. They are encouraged, and may be required to work towards professional qualifications offered by organisations such as the Pensions Management Institute and Chartered Insurance Institute.

Pensions administrators may progress to become a team leader or manager. Larger organisations usually have a structured career path. With further qualifications, pensions administrators can move into pensions advice. They can also diversify into other roles in the financial sector, including financial advice or consultancy.

Further details