One of the largest LGPS schemes in the UK has joined the Pension Management Institute’s Development Partnership programme.  

By joining the initiative, the West Midlands Pension Fund (WMPF), with an investment portfolio of £21 billion and more than 360,000 members, is the latest organisation to formalise its commitment to professional development, governance excellence and long‑term talent growth.  

The announcement comes as regulatory expectations are intensifying and the demand for higher skills are rising across every corner of the industry. LGPS funds are facing heightened scrutiny around governance, transparency, and member outcomes, making investment in people and capability a strategic priority for the sector. 

They continue to play a critical role in the UK’s long‑term retirement landscape, and WMPF’s participation in the Development Partnership programme signals a strengthening of industry‑wide collaboration around skills and capability.  

Last November, the PMI announced the launch of the programme, with the Local Government Association (LGA) joining Barnett Waddingham, Aptia and Equiniti Retirement Solutions as the first Development Partners.      

The programme supports organisations in embedding structured learning pathways, enhancing technical expertise, and building future talent pipelines across pensions administration, governance, and investment functions.  

Varsha Gicas, Chief Customer Officer of the Pensions Management Institute, commented:

“We are delighted to welcome West Midlands Pension Fund as a Development Partner. Their scale, ambition, and longstanding commitment to high‑quality governance make them an important voice within the LGPS community. As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, the need for robust professional standards has never been greater.  

“This partnership reflects a shared belief in the value of continuous learning and in building a strong, diverse pipeline of pensions professionals who can support the sector for decades to come.”  

Amy Regler, Deputy Director of Pension Operations at West Midlands Pension Fund, said:

“This partnership with the Pensions Management Institute marks an important step for West Midlands Pension Fund. We have invested in professional development for many years, and formalising our relationship through the Development Partnership reinforces our commitment to technical excellence, strong governance and building capability across our teams.  

“It also strengthens the pathway for new talent entering the pensions industry, helping to ensure we continue to deliver high standards for our members and employers.” 

More information about the programme can be found on the PMI website: https://www.pensions-pmi.org.uk/development-partnerships/ 

Ends 

Notes to editors:  

The PMI’s Development Partnership programme provides several benefits.   

For Employers:  

• Predictable annual investment  

• Greater proportion of eligible staff actively engaged  

• Discounts across qualifications and training  

• Streamlined administration and reporting  
• Recognition as a learning-focused employer  

For Learners:  

• Early career membership through employer sponsorship  

• Clear upgrade pathways from Student to Professional levels  

• Ongoing access to qualifications, CPD, and networking  

• No financial barriers to participation  

The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) is the UK’s leading professional body for those working in pensions and retirement savings. With over 8,500 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.  

Press contact:    

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