Compliance Manager (Pensions)

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the development of a second-line compliance framework to oversee Railpen’s continued compliance with its regulatory obligations under the relevant pensions regulations and legislation, as principally determined by the Pensions Regulator (“TPR”).

This is a permanent role offering hybrid working, with London and Darlington considered as base locations.

Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK's largest and longest established pension funds.

Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.

To learn more about Railpen including our values, culture and purpose, visit our LinkedIn Life page here.   

As our Compliance Manager (Pensions), you’ll take ownership of the second-line compliance framework relevant to Railpen’s regulatory obligations under the applicable pensions regulations. In your first year, you’ll lead the design and implementation of a risk-based plan of continuous and thematic second line monitoring, creating strong foundations for future success. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders, providing expert advice, developing policies and procedures, and designing meaningful management information to relevant governance forums. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact, driving best practice and continuous improvement in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.

The ideal candidate will have strong subject matter expertise in UK DB and DC occupational pension schemes, coupled with a deep understanding of TPR regulation and occupational pension scheme legislation. A background in designing and implementing compliance programmes, conducting risk assessments, and developing policies and monitoring frameworks is essential. Confidence in providing regulatory advice and the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of seniority will be key to success. Independence and ownership of complex compliance projects should come naturally, supported by a track record of delivering results.

Alongside technical capability, the role calls for behaviours that foster collaboration and trust. A pragmatic and balanced approach is vital, applying regulation in a practical, solution-focused way. The successful candidate will demonstrate proactive thinking, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and an ability to build relationships across teams and seniority levels. Resilience and adaptability are important, as is the capacity to thrive in a changing environment and introduce new ways of working.

Our values of integrity, community and alignment are the guiding principles that influence our behaviour. They help us make decisions and shape our relationships with others. They’re what we stand for. You will actively demonstrate our values, helping to create a safe environment, to place the needs of the community above oneself and, through a culture of ‘fair challenge’, align to the best interests of our members. 

• A competitive salary (depending on experience)

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Generous annual bonus plan

• We provide membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Benefit arrangement under which you get a pension for life and a lump sum when you retire, based on your length of service and pay

•  4x Life Assurance cover

• Colleague referral scheme

• Private Medical Insurance

• Employee assistance programme

• Health cash plan

• Eye care vouchers

• Flu vaccination

• We support hybrid and flexible working along with very generous family leave including 12 months full pay maternity leave and 6 months full pay paternity leave

• Buy and sell holidays

• Give as you earn scheme

• Paid volunteering days

• Flexible half days leave

• Electric vehicle leasing

• Cycle to work scheme

Please apply via the apply button or visit Careers at Railpen by 5pm on Friday 21st November 2025.

Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.