Defined Benefit Pensions Conference 2026

From the 16 October 2025, individual customers buying PMI products for themselves will be able to pay by credit card only. This change does not affect company administrators making multiple purchases on behalf of their staff.

05 February 2026 | 08:30 - 18:00

Defined Benefit Pensions Conference 2026

This popular PMI event is focused on navigating the complexities and challenges within defined benefit schemes. Set against the backdrop of an ever-evolving financial landscape, the conference will provide a comprehensive exploration of critical topics shaping the pensions industry.

Industry experts and thought leaders will meet to discuss strategies for managing risks, optimising investment portfolios, and ensuring the sustainability of defined benefit pension schemes. Attendees can expect insightful sessions on regulatory updates, technological advancements and innovative solutions that impact pension fund management.

This conference is the ideal place to network and collaborate with peers to share best practices. With a keen emphasis on practical insights, the event also offers the opportunity for pension scheme trustees, investment managers, and advisers to stay abreast of the latest trends, exchange ideas, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with defined benefit schemes.

Why attend?

Industry Insights: gain valuable knowledge about industry trends, regulatory updates, and emerging challenges in the DB pension space.
Networking: connect with pension professionals, fund managers, regulators and legal experts to share best practices and build professional relationships.
Expert speakers: learn from leading industry experts, thought leaders and policymakers who provide deep dives into relevant topics.
Risk Management: understand evolving strategies to manage funding deficits, longevity risk and investment volatility in defined benefit plans.
Professional Development: enhance your knowledge and skills, staying ahead in a rapidly evolving regulatory and financial landscape. Plus you can claim up to 7 CPD points.

Fees
Members: Free
Affiliate and Corporate members: £600 (+VAT)
Non-members: £1200 (+VAT)
In person
event
Speakers
10+
CPD
7

Event Details

THE BASICS

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Topics of discussion:

Trends and Challenges in DB Agendas for 2026
Navigating DB Scheme Endgame
Leveraging Third-Party Capital for DB Scheme Support
Mansion House Reforms
Data and Dashboards
Economic Winds of Change: Assessing the Macro Impact on DB Schemes

Who should attend:

Pension scheme managers
Trustees
Administrators
Policy advisers
Consultants
Lawyers
Corporate IFAs
Investment managers
Actuaries
Financial directors

The venue

City of London

Agenda

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08:30 - 09:00

Arrivals, registration & breakfast

09:00 - 09:05

Welcome from the chair

09:05 - 09:40

Opening keynote: DB in a changing world: Macro trends, regulatory shifts, and the future role of DB schemes

An expert-led keynote exploring how defined benefit (DB) schemes are evolving, covering economic trends, regulatory developments, and their strategic role in today’s pensions landscape.

09:40 - 10:20

Funding Strategies in a Post-LDI Landscape: Lessons from recent volatility, evolving risk frameworks

An expert-led keynote exploring how defined benefit (DB) schemes are evolving, covering economic trends, regulatory developments, and their strategic role in today’s pensions landscape.

10:20 - 10:55

Covenant Assessment: Beyond the Balance Sheet: Holistic approaches to sponsor strength and long-term viability

A practical look at broader ways of assessing sponsor health, going beyond financial statements to consider long-term sustainability and ongoing support for scheme obligations.

10:55 - 11:25

Networking break

11:25 - 12:00

Endgame Planning: Buyout, Run-on, or Consolidation?: Strategic pathways, member outcomes, and market capacity

Explore the strategic options for endgame planning, from buyouts to run-on models and consolidation. The session will focus on outcomes for members and the realities of market capacity.

12:05 - 12:40

Breakout session: Navigating Surplus: Legal and Strategic Considerations: Exploring options for surplus use, reallocation, and member benefits

This session offers guidance on managing surplus funds, including the legal frameworks, strategic options for reallocation, and the potential to enhance member benefits.

12:05 - 12:40

Breakout session: Diversity in Trustee Boards: Enhancing governance through inclusive representation

Discover how greater diversity on trustee boards can improve decision-making and governance, supporting stronger outcomes for schemes and members.

12:40 - 13:40

Lunch and networking

Take a break to enjoy lunch and continue conversations from the morning.

13:40 - 14:15

DB Schemes & Member Communications: Building trust, transparency, and engagement during transitions

Best practice for keeping members informed during scheme transitions, with a focus on trust, clear messaging and meaningful engagement.

14:20 - 14:55

Breakout session: Technology & DB Scheme Efficiency: Automation, dashboards, and digital transformation

Best practice for keeping members informed during scheme transitions, with a focus on trust, clear messaging and meaningful engagement.

14:20 - 14:55

Breakout session: DB Consolidators: Opportunities & Risks: Deep dive into superfunds, regulatory oversight, and trustee decision-making

An in-depth look at the role of DB consolidators (superfunds), including potential opportunities, regulatory oversight, and guidance for trustees making consolidation decisions.

14:55 - 15:20

Networking break

15:20 - 15:55

ESG Integration in DB Portfolios: Stewardship, climate risk, and fiduciary duty

A discussion on embedding environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into DB investment portfolios, highlighting stewardship responsibilities, climate risk and fiduciary obligations.

15:55 - 16:30

Data Quality and Scheme Governance: Leveraging data for better decisions, compliance, and member experience

A discussion on embedding environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into DB investment portfolios, highlighting stewardship responsibilities, climate risk and fiduciary obligations.

16:30 - 17:00

Policy Panel: The Future of DB Regulation: Dialogue with TPR, DWP, and industry leaders on upcoming reforms

A panel featuring the Pensions Regulator (TPR), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and industry leaders, discussing upcoming regulatory changes and what they mean for trustees and sponsors.

17:00 - 18:00

Networking drinks reception

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Thank you to our sponsors and partners for their support

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Schroders Solutions

Host

Just Group

Insight Partner

Standard Life

Sponsor