Pensions Control Lead

Job Title: Pensions Controls Lead Location: Hursley, Winchester Department: Pensions Reports To: Pensions Finance and Controls Manager Type: Full-time Job Summary: We are seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Pensions Controls Lead to oversee the governance, controls and compliance aspects of the company's pension plans. The successful candidate will take a leadership role in the administration of pension plan governance, ensure quarterly SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act) testing is completed for all pension plans, and coordinate the reporting process to corporate. Additionally, the role includes conducting payroll testing, organising process walkthroughs with external auditors (PwC), and working closely with the internal teams. This position will also support the Pensions Controls Manager in ensuring that the Pensions Trust is audit-ready. Key Responsibilities: Lead Pension Plan Governance Administration: Organise and administer governance calls for the contract-based pension plans, ensuring all associated tasks are completed timely. Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders related to these pension plans. Quarterly SOX Testing: - Conduct quarterly SOX compliance testing across all company pension plans to ensure proper financial controls are in place. - Document and report the results of SOX testing to management, highlighting any risks or areas for improvement. - Corporate Reporting: - Compile and submit quarterly pension plan reports to the corporate office, providing a clear and accurate business position summary for each reporting cycle. - Work closely with corporate to ensure the alignment of pension-related reports. - Payroll Testing: - Perform payroll testing related to pension contributions and deductions to ensure accuracy and compliance with company and regulatory standards. - Identify discrepancies and coordinate with payroll to resolve issues. - Process Walkthroughs: - Coordinate detailed process walkthroughs with internal teams and PwC auditors, ensuring that all relevant documentation and explanations are provided. - Collaborate with auditors and internal stakeholders to identify potential control improvements and address audit queries. - Audit Readiness: - Support the Pensions Controls Manager in ensuring that pension trust is fully audit-ready at all times. - Assist in the preparation of audit documentation and responses to any auditor requests. - Cross-Functional Collaboration: - Work closely with internal organisations, external pension providers and external auditors to ensure cohesive pension plan management. - Liaise with cross-functional teams to maintain an accurate understanding of the company's pension controls and governance environment. Qualifications & Experience: - Proven experience in pension plan administration, financial controls, or related roles. - Strong understanding of SOX compliance, and pension governance. - Experience working with auditors and coordinating process walkthroughs. - Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. - Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy in reporting. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with cross-functional teams. Preferred: - Experience with contract-based pension plans and knowledge of pension-related regulations. - Familiarity with audit processes and audit readiness strategies. Key Competencies: - Attention to Detail - Analytical Thinking - Problem Solving - Strong Communication Skills - Stakeholder Management - Process Improvement Orientation - Team Collaboration This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in the governance of the company's pension plans and work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Skills: Sox Controls Payroll Audits Pensions