PMI launches new evidence-based qualification to recognise importance of pensions administration

The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) has unveiled a new evidence-based qualification to recognise the vital importance of experienced pensions administration professionals in driving better outcomes for savers.   

The Level 5 Experienced Pensions Professional Certificate (EPPC) acknowledges the role administration plays in delivering high-quality pensions, and aims to raise professional standards across the industry. 

Leading pensions administration company Aptia played a key role in developing the structure and content of the EPPC, ensuring the qualification reflects the realities and demands of modern pensions administration. 

Vanessa Jackson, Chief Learning Officer at PMI, said: 

“Administration is the backbone of the pensions industry. It is how the promises made to savers are delivered. The EPPC recognises that expertise, giving experienced professionals the recognition they deserve and the confidence to drive better outcomes for members. We’re hugely grateful to Aptia for their insight and collaboration in shaping this important qualification.” 

Phil Wadsworth, Aptia’s Chief Actuary, said: 

"As the pensions industry continues to evolve, professional qualifications have an increasingly important role to play in ensuring the sector has the skills and expertise needed to meet future challenges. The EPPC qualification represents a major step forward in the continued professionalisation of pensions administration, recognising the knowledge and experience of established professionals while encouraging a culture of continuous learning and development. 

‘We are proud to support an initiative that has the potential to raise standards across the industry and enhance outcomes for millions of pension savers.’ 

David Fairs, Chair of the Pensions Administration Standards Association, said:  

“Pensions administration sits at the heart of delivering good outcomes for savers, so investing in and recognising the people who perform these roles is critical. We welcome initiatives which provide experienced pensions professionals with opportunities to gain formal recognition for the expertise they have developed throughout their careers. Continuing to strengthen professional development and recognition across pensions administration will help raise standards, build capability and reinforce administration’s standing as a profession.”  

The EPPC – the PMI's first new qualification since 2022 - offers a new route to professional recognition, assessing competence through real-world evidence rather than exams or coursework.  

Candidates build a portfolio demonstrating their expertise and impact, helping to create a workforce equipped to deliver better outcomes for savers. 

The launch aligns with the Government’s updated Pensions Roadmap, which calls for improved governance, transparency, and value for money. The PMI’s new qualification ensures the people delivering these reforms have the professionalism and capability to make them a success. 

Anyone interested in registering their interest in the EPPC can now do so at Register your interest - EPPC | The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) 

The EPPC is the latest step in the PMI’s drive to raise standards in pensions administration. Through convening the Administration Industry Group, the PMI has brought the sector together to set higher expectations for professional practice.  

In parallel, the PMI sits on PASA’s Careers Working Group to secure alignment and buy‑in for our expanding suite of administration qualifications, including new pathways to PMI Associateship for administration professionals. Work is already underway on a Level 6 administration qualification planned for release in Spring 2027.  

ENDS 

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