Brightwell joins PMI's development partnership programme

Brightwell, the comprehensive service provider for UK pension schemes, has joined the Pensions Management Institute's (PMI) Development Partnership programme, reinforcing its commitment to developing the next generation of pensions professionals through structured learning, professional qualifications and clear career pathways.

The partnership builds on Brightwell's ongoing investment in skills development through its award-winning Pensions Academy, which was launched in Chesterfield in 2022 to help address the growing shortage of skilled pensions administrators across the industry. Since its launch, the Academy has recruited over 100 new administrators and helped create career opportunities for people from a wide variety of backgrounds, many with no previous pensions experience, and with nearly half being aged between 18 and 24.

As a PMI Development Partner, Brightwell will continue embedding PMI qualifications throughout its learning programmes, ensuring colleagues develop both the technical expertise and professional standards required to support pension scheme members and policyholders.

Today, all Academy participants undertake PMI qualifications as part of their development journey, with the programme providing an accessible route into a profession that plays a vital role in supporting the retirement outcomes of millions of people across the UK.

Simon Langworthy, Chief Administration Officer at Brightwell, said: “People are at the heart of everything we do at Brightwell. Delivering excellent outcomes for members depends on having knowledgeable, capable and engaged pensions professionals, yet attracting new talent remains one of the biggest long-term challenges facing our industry.

“The PMI Development Partnership supports our ambition to scale the Brightwell Pensions Academy and continue creating opportunities for people who may never previously have considered a career in pensions. By combining structured workplace learning with recognised professional qualifications, we're helping build a sustainable talent pipeline that benefits both Brightwell and the wider pensions sector.”

Varsha Gicas, Chief Customer Officer at the PMI, said: “Development Partnerships give us the opportunity to work more closely with employers to support their people throughout their professional journey. By working with the leadership team at Brightwell, we can create a more joined-up approach to professional development, connecting membership, learning and qualifications in a way that supports individuals at different stages of their careers. We are pleased to welcome Brightwell as a Development Partner and look forward to working together to create meaningful development opportunities for their people.” 

-ENDS-

About Brightwell

Brightwell is a comprehensive service provider to UK pension schemes.

It has operations in London, where the funding and fiduciary management team is based, and Chesterfield which is the home of the member services team. Brightwell acquired pensions administration technology company Procentia in 2019.

Awards:

• CDI Manager of the Year, Pensions Age Awards 2026.
• DB Investment Manager of the Year, Pensions Age Awards 2025.
• Digitalised Personalisation and Overall Innovation & Transformation, The Forum Awards 2025.
• Pension Scheme Administrator, Pensions Age Awards 2024.
• Innovation in Learning, Development and Talent Retention, PMI Pinnacle Awards 2023.
• Training Scheme of the Year, Professional Pensions Rising Star awards 2023.
• Pension Scheme Administrator, European Pensions Awards 2022.

For more information visit www.brightwellpensions.com

About the PMI:

The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) is the UK’s leading professional body for those working in pensions and retirement savings. With over 10,000 members, the PMI represents the broadest range of pensions professionals and trustees in the country.    

Its members are responsible for managing and advising some of the world’s largest pension schemes, making key decisions on substantial financial matters. With more than £1 trillion invested in UK pensions, PMI members play a vital role in shaping the nation’s financial future. With five decades of experience, PMI remains at the forefront of pensions education and thought leadership.   

PMI Press contact:

For media enquiries, please contact Matt Adams, Head of Media and PR at pressoffice@pensions-pmi.org.uk