Manchester Central’s Exchange Hall was buzzing as we hosted our first Annual Conference as Pensions UK on 14-16 October.
Chief Executive, Julian Mund, opened the conference with an address drawing a parallel between NASA’s Europa Clipper mission and the sector’s own moment of transformation. He went on to introduce Pensions UK as a unifying platform, adding a focus on our 2030 Ready strategy, and setting the scene for what was to come over the next few days.
The industry meeting place
1,489 delegates registered to attend the three-day conference, 17% up from 2024, and representatives attended from a variety of pension schemes.
Delegates discussed and heard updates on adequacy, investing in UK growth, the Pension Schemes Bill, the Pensions Commission, pension legislation and more. With over 50 sessions and more than 90 speakers and chairs, there was a lot to explore.
A favourite aspect of the conference for delegates was meeting industry colleagues, making new contacts and collaborating.
- Highly senior audience: 92% of delegates were mid‑management level or above and there was a strong C‑suite presence.
- Influential delegates: 91% influence purchasing decisions within their organisations, with over one‑third of delegates responsible for investment decisions.
- Welcoming newcomers: 41% of delegates were first‑time attendees.
“Unique size and breadth of pensions stakeholders attending that I don’t see at any other industry event.”
“…the networking opportunities were unlike any other event.”
Lively atmosphere
Delegates also praised the vibrant atmosphere and high-quality content of the conference, citing networking, thought leadership and wellbeing initiatives as standout features.
They also confirmed that the event is the flagship event that brings the entire pensions industry together and is a ‘must attend’.
“Most sessions were excellent, speakers were impressive and the conference agenda well planned and aligned to the current UK themes.”
“The presentations / seminars given were really useful and engaging. Good opportunity to hear ideas and other thoughts.”
Highly-rated new initiatives
New to the conference this year, we introduced wellbeing and community‑building initiatives:
- Wellbeing sessions: a programme of wellbeing including conference runs, breath‑work sessions, a sensory calm room and city walking tours that received a 100% good/excellent rating.
- Delegate area on our member hub: a one‑stop shop for delegate information and the place to watch interviews and session recordings was rated good/excellent by 86% of delegates.
- Inspiring the next generation: in partnership with Marketing Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, we hosted 40 final‑year finance and accountancy students to showcase the opportunities and careers on offer in pensions.
Sellout exhibition hall
Delegates praised the high-energy environment and high footfall in the sellout exhibition hall, with 91% rating their ability to connect with exhibitors and sponsors as good/excellent.
There was also plenty of opportunity to make connections – via the app, during the welcome drinks, conference dinner, city walks and more.