Overview

Service provider management for pension funds is a critical function that ensures the seamless delivery of essential services such as administration, investment management, record keeping, and member communication. This course covers the processes involved in selecting, contracting, monitoring, and evaluating service providers to maintain high standards of professionalism, compliance, and efficiency in pension scheme operations. It emphasizes the importance of clear service level agreements, robust governance frameworks, and ongoing oversight to mitigate risks, prevent conflicts of interest, and uphold fiduciary duties. Participants will learn how pension funds coordinate with multiple intermediaries, maintain accountability through regular reporting, and leverage technology to enhance transparency and member satisfaction. Effective management of service providers ultimately supports the pension fund’s goal of securing members’ retirement benefits with integrity and operational excellence.

Key Topics:

• Selection and Contracting of Service Providers: Establishing criteria, conducting due diligence, and formalizing agreements to ensure alignment with pension fund objectives and regulatory requirements.

• Governance and Oversight Frameworks: Implementing policies, roles, and responsibilities to monitor service provider performance and compliance.

• Risk Management and Conflict of Interest Prevention: Identifying operational, financial, and reputational risks associated with service providers and establishing controls to mitigate them.

• Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Setting service level standards, conducting regular reviews, and ensuring transparent reporting to trustees and stakeholders.

• Coordination and Communication: Facilitating effective collaboration among pension fund administrators, investment managers, custodians, and other intermediaries to deliver integrated services.