The Society of Pension Professionals (SPP) has elected Calum Cooper, partner & head of pension policy innovation at Hymans Robertson, as its next president for a two-year term which began on 1 June.
He succeeded Sophia Singleton, partner & head of DC at XPS who held the role since 1 June 2024.
Under Ms Singleton, the SPP grew its reach and influence. Highlights of her tenure include a successful collaboration with the APL, ACA and DWP which helped ensure an industry informed solution to the challenges presented by the Virgin Media case.
During her time the SPP proved instrumental in ensuring the PPF’s Admin Levy was abolished and was central to helping ensure flexibility around the general levy was included in the Pension Schemes Act.
The SPP also worked effectively with HMRC to ensure an exemption for pension admin professionals in relation to the new HMRC tax adviser registration requirements.
Mr Cooper said he will seek to protect and build on the foundations laid by ensuring the SPP continues to collaborate effectively, delivers meaningful and positive impact, and makes sure that industry voices are heard when it matters.
Mr Cooper said: “It is a privilege to take on the role of president of the SPP. I would like to thank Sophia for the strong foundations she has laid during her tenure. My priority is to protect and build on that progress, ensuring we continue to be a trusted and authoritative voice for the pensions industry, representing the professions in all their diversity.”
He said he wants the SPP to focus on delivering impact, making sure that the views and expertise of its members continue to be heard clearly when it matters most in shaping pensions policy and regulation.
He said: “Collaboration is also central to everything the SPP does and how we do it. As President, I want to build on SPP’s strong relationships with colleagues across the industry, as well as with government, regulators, policymakers and other industry bodies. All in the spirit of togetherness, positively impacting peoples’ pension outcomes.”