“People often think pensions is boring or too complicated,” Sukhjit says. “I wanted to help newcomers see the huge amount of opportunity and variety in the industry.” 

Since then, he has mentored five mentees across five consecutive years, each with their own ambitions and starting points. Many were moving from other professions “It can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out,” he recalls. “I wanted to show them that with the right guidance, there’s a clear path forward.” 

Helping Mentees Find Their Direction 

For Sukhjit, who works for First Bus, the mentoring relationship always begins with clarity. He helps each mentee understand their short and long‑term career goals before mapping out practical routes to reach them. This often includes discussing PMI qualifications, training, voluntary roles, or opportunities to join working groups. 

“A lot of people don’t realise how many different roles exist in pensions,” he explains. “You’ve got investment, administration, actuarial work, governance, audit, legal, professional trusteeship etc. Once people understand the breadth of the sector, their confidence grows.” 

One standout success for Sukhjit was a mentee who advised her dream role as her long-term goal. With Sukhjit’s guidance, she secured a promotion and moved into the role she had been dreaming of - all within the programme year. “Seeing someone progress like that is incredibly rewarding,” he says. “You watch them tick off every goal set and grow in confidence along the way.” 

How Mentoring Enriched His Own Career 

The programme hasn’t only benefitted those he supports. Mentoring has also broadened Sukhjit’s own horizons. “Their enthusiasm motivates me,” he says. “It pushes me to keep learning, stay ahead, never stand still, and always look at the next goals ahead. You end up growing alongside your mentees.” 

After five years, he is continuing into a sixth. “Seeing the next generation come through is inspiring – I am looking forward to my sixth year as a PMI mentor for sure. It reminds you why the work we do matters.” 

Why Others Should Get Involved 

Sukhjit believes the programme plays a vital role in strengthening the pensions profession. “Mentoring is powerful for both sides,” he says. “Mentees get guidance from someone who’s walked the path, and mentors help shape the future of the industry. If we want the sector to thrive, we need to open doors and support people coming in.” 

Help Shape the Future of Pensions 

The PMI Mentoring Programme connects experienced pensions professionals like Sukhjit with newcomers to support career development, build confidence and showcase the industry’s diverse opportunities. Through structured guidance and real‑world insight, the initiative helps attract, develop and retain talent, strengthening the future of the pensions profession.  

A final word from Sukhjit: “Seeing people grow, succeed and discover their place in pensions is why I come back every year — it reminds me what this industry can be.” 

Whether you’re looking to build your career or ready to give back to the profession, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact.  

Read more about how to become a mentor or mentee.  

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