Marvin OnumonuPensions UK has appointed Dirk Paterson and Matthew Blakstad as deputy directors as the sector faces major changes.
Paterson joins as deputy director of external affairs, bringing over 25 years’ experience in communications, public affairs, marketing, and policy, with a background at Business Banking Resolution Service and Nest.
Blakstad becomes deputy director of strategic policy and research, after more than 20 years working in pensions, including at PwC, Talking People, DWP, and as co-founder of Nest Insight.
Paterson said: “It’s great to join the newly rebranded Pensions UK at this pivotal moment in UK pensions history.
“Pension provision in the UK has made massive strides over the past 20 years, but there’s so much more to do.
“I’m excited to be influencing pensions policy to improve provision so that all UK savers build adequate savings for retirement.”
Paterson added: “I want to help build a policy consensus so we’re all thriving in retirement, not just surviving.”
Blakstad said: “With pensions in the policy spotlight, this feels the perfect time to be joining Pensions UK to develop a strategic policy programme that’s fit for the future.
“Having worked as a leader within the industry, I’ve already had the pleasure of working with Pensions UK’s expert and insightful policy and research teams.
“Now I’m very much looking forward to joining as a colleague.”
Blakstad added: “We will work on an evidence base that can support the future interests of pensions savers, and the schemes that serve them.”
Julian Mund, CEO at Pensions UK, said: “Matthew and Dirk bring outstanding experience and energy to Pensions UK.
“As the voice of pensions, their leadership will be crucial in helping us deliver our new strategy – amplifying our voice, deepening our impact, and delivering for our members in new and better ways.
“Together we will continue to keep doing all we can to support better retirement incomes for everyone.”
