The Aon 2021 Virtual Pension Conference has been designed for trustees of pension schemes and pensions, HR and finance professionals who make decisions about their company’s pension scheme. Pensions schemes and trustees have adapted over time with changes to the pensions landscape and the needs of members. This conference will help you reflect on your own pension scheme strategy and will include lots of real-life examples.

Undoubtedly, this conference series will look and feel different for many of you who are used to attending our in-person conferences but we have been working very hard to design this 2021 virtual conference so that you have the same experience. The conference will give you access to interesting and topical content and thought provoking insights from Aon specialists, and you will have a chance to network and discuss the content with other delegates in breakout rooms and in our virtual networking rooms.

REGISTER HERE

09:30 - 09:40

Welcome

Speakers: Chair

09:40 - 10:25

Creating and documenting your journey plan

Speakers: David Lindsay; Paul McGlone

The new DB funding code will expect trustees and sponsors to agree on a long term funding and investment strategy, with a documented journey plan for ensuring that scheme benefits can be provided in the long term. Trustees are also expected to prepare a statement each year explaining the strategy, including the risks to that strategy and contingency plans to cope with major risks.

In this session we will go through the practical steps of how schemes can create and document a robust journey plan, including how that journey plan may differ depending on the circumstances of your scheme. We will cover funding, investment and covenant considerations, and delegates will have ample opportunity to discuss their own circumstances with both Aon hosts and other schemes.

10:45 - 11:05

The Diversification Paradox

Speakers: Andy Peach; Jo Sharples

After a decade of incredibly well behaved markets, investors could be forgiven for wondering “does diversification matter?” If nothing else, the rough ride in March 2020 served as a timely reminder that, yes, it does. But just when it was needed, not all diversification worked, so it’s important that care is taken when constructing portfolios. Our investment specialists will outline what this means for the DB and DC investor along with a guide to implementation.

11:15 - 11:40

The power behind your capital: investing for a better future

Speakers: Katherine Patel; Richard Hyman

The market value of pension funds reached £2.2 trillion at the end of 2019 – but do you know what kind of practices this money is supporting? Discover the power wielded by your assets and how your managers are using it. Learn about the tools you have to take back control, the steps Aon are taking to make an impact and the latest regulation surrounding responsible investment.

11:40 - 12:10

Virtual networking