Reflections on 15 years at Trafalgar House

I recently celebrated 15 years at Trafalgar House – a long time by any measure. Hitting this milestone made me pause and reflect on not only what I’ve achieved, but also what’s changed.

Over the years, I’ve experienced some pivotal highs with every personal achievement contributing to my growth and understanding of the sector. Being named ‘Pensions Administrator of the Year’ at the 2019 Women in Pensions Awards was one of those highs, affirming my commitment to delivering exceptional service. Then, achieving Fellowship of the Pensions Management Institute in 2020 was the end of a long journey of building my broader knowledge and understanding of the industry.

Pensions administration is a dynamic field that truly matters. As administrators, we ensure members’ data is accurate and available when needed and have a great responsibility to communicate clearly and promptly. The main aim is to help members make sound, unhurried decisions, which in turn improves their retirement outcomes.

Over the last 15 years, I’ve witnessed a significant transformation in pensions administration. There was a time when everyone assumed they knew what pensions administration was, and almost anyone could do it. However, this view and approach has dramatically shifted. Today, the importance of data accuracy and the crucial role that pensions administrators play is recognised and valued. We are now seen as trusted specialists and experts, integral to delivering a robust and efficient administration service.

If you’re contemplating a career in pensions administration, bear this in mind – it’s more than a job, it’s a vocation. It calls for dedication, lifelong learning, and a strong commitment to influencing people’s lives positively. It can be challenging – you’ll grapple with intricate data sets, complex rules, changing legislation, and increasing member expectations. But, as part of this larger mission, you offer expert support during moments when members or trustees are making critical financial decisions. You’re there to lend care and guidance when life and markets change course, ensuring members and trustees navigate these transitions with confidence and peace of mind. In essence, it’s about helping everyone secure a better future.

I’ve learnt a lot and picked up a few key tips that have helped me along the way. I’d love to share them with you:

1. Stay curious: The world of pensions is evolving. Be open to learning and adapting to new trends and practices.
2. Be meticulous: Precision and accuracy are crucial. It’s not just numbers; it’s people’s income and futures you are handling.
3. Respect data: Treat data with the utmost respect. It’s a vital element in the service we provide.
4. Collaborate: Collaboration is key to success in our industry. Be ready to work together, share knowledge, and support your colleagues and industry partners.

As I look back on my 15 years here, I’m still just as dedicated to my team and my role as Client Projects & Data Manager. My aim? To make things run smoothly for our clients and to give my team as many opportunities as I’ve been given to expand and grow in my career. Here’s to many more years of making a real difference at Trafalgar House!