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.

26 March 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

book

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

Schroders Solutions, 1 London Wall Place, EC2Y 5AU

Agenda

book

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

Join experts exploring how Defined Benefit (DB) schemes are adapting to global economic and regulatory change. Gain insights into the evolving role of DB in today’s pensions landscape and what it means for members and sponsors.

09:40 - 10:20

Funding strategies in a post-LDI landscape – lessons from recent volatility and evolving risk frameworks

Learn how schemes are reshaping funding strategies following recent Liability Driven Investment (LDI) challenges. Speakers will share key lessons from market volatility and showcase innovative approaches to managing long-term risk.

10:20 - 10:55

Covenant assessment beyond the balance sheet – understanding sponsor strength for long-term security

Explore practical ways to assess sponsor strength that go beyond financial statements. The session will highlight how a broader perspective supports sustainable schemes and long-term member outcomes.

10:55 - 11:25

Networking break

Refreshments and a chance to exchange insights with peers.

11:25 - 12:00

Endgame planning – buyout, run-on or consolidation? Exploring strategic pathways and market realities

Discover the strategic options for endgame planning, from buyouts and run-on models to consolidation. Understand the impact on member outcomes and how market capacity is shaping trustee decisions.

12:05 - 12:40

Breakout session: Navigating surplus – legal and strategic considerations for reallocation and member benefit

Gain clarity on managing scheme surpluses within the legal framework. Hear expert guidance on how surplus use can support strategic aims and potentially enhance member benefits.

12:05 - 12:40

Breakout session: Diversity on trustee boards – strengthening governance through inclusive representation

Explore how diversity drives stronger governance and more effective decision-making. This session will share practical steps to build inclusive trustee boards that better reflect scheme 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 and DB scheme efficiency – automation, dashboards and digital transformation

See how technology is driving efficiency across DB schemes. From automation tools to data dashboards, explore practical ways to streamline operations and enhance reporting.

14:20 - 14:55

Breakout session: DB consolidators – opportunities, risks and regulatory oversight

Gain an informed view of the role of DB consolidators (superfunds). This session explores potential benefits, regulatory expectations, and what trustees should consider when making consolidation decisions.

14:55 - 15:20

Networking break

Refreshments and a chance to exchange insights with peers.

15:20 - 15:55

ESG integration in DB portfolios – stewardship, climate risk and fiduciary duty

Understand how environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors are being embedded into DB investment strategies. Learn about stewardship responsibilities, managing climate risk, and aligning with fiduciary duties.

15:55 - 16:30

Data quality and scheme governance – using data to strengthen decisions and member experience

Discover how accurate, high-quality data supports effective governance, ensures compliance, and enhances member outcomes. Practical examples will show how better data drives better decisions.

16:30 - 17:00

Policy panel – the future of DB regulation

Hear directly from The Pensions Regulator (TPR), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and industry leaders as they discuss forthcoming reforms. Gain a clearer view of how regulation is evolving and what this means for trustees and sponsors.

17:00 - 18:00

Networking drinks reception

An informal reception to close the day, with the chance to connect with peers, speakers and sponsors over drinks.

book