The Society of Pension Professionals has elected Sophia Singleton to be its next president.
Singleton, who is a partner and head of DC consulting at XPS will replace Steve Hitchiner, a partner at Barnett Waddingham, in this two-year role.
The SPP said that under Hitchiner’s leadership the SPP extended both its reach and influence, with its membership growing by approximately 20 per cent over the past two years. It says this has driven increased activity, including events, consultation submissions, meetings with industry stakeholders, and a growing media profile.
Singleton says she is looking to build on this progress, while also aiming to establish the SPP as a champion of EDI within the industry.
Speaking on her new appointment Singleton, the president-elect of the SPP, says: “Looking ahead, I will work with industry stakeholders and policymakers to stimulate constructive policy analysis and debate to achieve the best possible outcomes for our members.
“In particular, I’d like to focus on ways consumer support and protections can be strengthened to improve DC outcomes, focusing on reviews of auto-enrolment, development of long-term retirement solutions and exploring how to improve investment outcomes, all while ensuring security for DB members remains a priority. We will also strengthen our role as a representative of all parts of our industry, engaging with the next generation of industry professionals and championing EDI.”
SPP CEO Fred Emden adds: “I am immensely proud of what the SPP has achieved during [Hitchiner’s] tenure. I look forward to working closely with [Singleton] to achieve her objectives, which will help continue to drive positive change for the SPP and industry.”
In her role at XPS Singleton advises trustees and corporates across all areas of their DC benefits, with a particular focus on benefit design, investments, member engagement, data analytics and scheme governance.