Job Purpose
Working to the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager this post will contribute to the efficient and effective preparation and processing of a comprehensive pensions administration and pensions payroll service, for the application of statutory regulations, e.g. pensions regulations, and for the management of Pensions Officers as allocated.
Main Duties
- To undertake a range of pension’s related activities that contribute to the effective and efficient delivery of the Pensions Service.
- To manage the work of one or more Pensions Officers ensuring their work is accurate.
Duties and Responsibilities
- To be responsible for the day-to-day management of up to 5 Pensions Officers (as allocated by the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager) engaged in the maintenance of the pension’s administration and pension payroll systems or, the calculation of more straightforward pension benefits and related entitlements.
- To manage one or more areas of work as allocated by the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager e.g. maintenance of the pensions administration system or maintenance of the pensions payroll system or calculation and payment of retirement benefits or deferred benefits or death and spouses calculations etc.
- To be responsible for the accuracy of input to systems, carrying out checks as appropriate to ensure that quality standards are maintained; to use, supervise and control the use of computerised systems ensuring that the preparation and input of data is in accordance with agreed procedures. For example the setting up of new scheme member records, the maintenance of personal pensions and pay-related information, the application of statutory and voluntary deductions and the processing of terminations.
- To undertake and where appropriate authorise the payment of the more complex calculations of pension benefits/entitlements, including Age and Ill Health Retirement, Early Retirement benefits, Death Benefits, Divorce and Misselling calculations.
- As required by internal procedures to undertake the checking of calculations undertaken by Senior Pension Officers colleagues and Pensions Officers.
- To prepare emergency payments when pensioners can’t be paid via payroll.
- To assist the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager in the identification of pensions administration, pensions payroll and personnel monitoring information requirements and for the implementation and ongoing reviews of computer systems.
- To provide guidance to Pension Officers on the use of various computer systems.
- To assist in the interpretation and application of statutory rules and regulations affecting pensions.
- To keep up to date with developments in relevant legislation and any changes in pensions systems, providing advice, training and guidance notes to Pensions Officers as necessary.
- To assist the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager in overseeing the preparation of systems reports and reports providing management information.
- To assist in ensuring the effective implementation of major changes in legislation/policy. Undertaking project work as appropriate, reporting to the Pensions Operations Manager.
- To undertake the duties of a Pensions Officer as required including processing data to maintain the pensions administration system and pensions payroll or the calculation of straightforward payments such as redundancy payments refunds and inter fund transfers
- To be responsible for the training and development of Pensions Officers and any other staff allocated, including the delivery of training in areas of expertise as appropriate.
- To deal with more complex pensions related queries – by telephone, in writing or in person from staff, Members, external bodies and members of the public.
- To assist the Deputy Pensions Operations Manager in ensuring that, through the effective development and training of staff, there are continuous improvements in the services provided by the team.
- Contribute to ensuring the Pension Service is provided in accordance with the Council’s commitment to high quality service provision to users.
- Carry out duties with due regard and compliance with the Data Protection Act and other legislation.
- Carry out duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Council’s Health and Safety Policy and relevant legislation.
- To undertake other duties commensurate to the grade of the post.