The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) has launched the Level 5 Experienced Pensions Professional Certificate (EPPC), which acknowledges the role administration plays in delivering high-quality pensions.
The EPPC is the PMI’s first new qualification since 2022 and offers a new route to professional recognition, assessing competence through real-world evidence rather than exams or coursework.
According to the institute, candidates build a portfolio showing their expertise and impact, helping to create a workforce equipped to deliver better outcomes for savers.
The launch aligns with the Government’s updated Pensions Roadmap, which calls for improved governance, transparency and value for money.
Aptia was key in developing the structure and content of the EPPC, ensuring the qualification reflects the realities and demands of modern pensions administration.
PMI chief learning officer Vanessa Jackson says “Administration is the backbone of the pensions industry. It is how the promises made to savers are delivered. The EPPC recognises that expertise, giving experienced professionals the recognition they deserve and the confidence to drive better outcomes for members. We’re hugely grateful to Aptia for their insight and collaboration in shaping this important qualification.”
Aptia chief actuary Phil Wadsworth says: “As the pensions industry continues to evolve, professional qualifications have an increasingly important role to play in ensuring the sector has the skills and expertise needed to meet future challenges. The EPPC qualification represents a major step forward in the continued professionalisation of pensions administration, recognising the knowledge and experience of established professionals while encouraging a culture of continuous learning and development.
“We are proud to support an initiative that has the potential to raise standards across the industry and enhance outcomes for millions of pension savers.”
Pensions Administration Standards Association chair David Fairs says: “Pensions administration sits at the heart of delivering good outcomes for savers, so investing in and recognising the people who perform these roles is critical. We welcome initiatives which provide experienced pensions professionals with opportunities to gain formal recognition for the expertise they have developed throughout their careers. Continuing to strengthen professional development and recognition across pensions administration will help raise standards, build capability and reinforce administration’s standing as a profession.”
