The Pensions Regulator (TPR) has appointed David Fairs as executive director for regulatory policy, analysis and advice, responsible for its work on policy.
Mr Fairs, currently partner at KPMG’s pension consulting business, will start his new role in July and will support the implementation of legislation relating to workplace pensions.
His field of responsibility also includes Brexit, the 21st Century trustee initiative and responding to other key developments across the pensions landscape.
He will lead a team of specialists, including lawyers, actuaries, business analysts and investment consultants, as well as risk, research and analysis teams.
Mr Fairs said: “I am really excited to be joining the TPR team. The opportunity to help with the drive for stronger governance and security of member benefits is something I feel passionately about.”
In his current role at KPMG Mr Fairs worked on helping clients with the design, management and communication of pension benefits.
But he also held a number of external roles including the chairman of the Association of Consulting Actuaries and founding chairman of the Joint Industry Forum for Workplace Pensions.
Mr Fairs’ appointment to the TPR board was made by the Department for Work and Pensions and will see Anthony Raymond, who filled the post on an interim basis, return to his role of general counsel and director of legal services.
TPR is in charge of regulating work-based pension schemes in the UK, which includes enforcing the adoption of auto-enrolment by employers and protecting members’ benefits.
TPR chairman Mark Boyle said: “I am delighted David Fairs has been appointed to what is a pivotal role at TPR.
“The rapid pace of change in the pensions sector continues and David’s strong background and deep understanding of pensions legislation will ensure we remain an active influencer and pragmatic implementer of Government pensions policy, in line with our mandate to protect workplace pensions.”
carmen.reichman@ft.com
