Improving Pension Efficiency & Compliance for UK Maritime Provider

Summary

This case study outlines how Dalriada improved pension scheme efficiency and compliance for a leading UK maritime provider. By embedding a specialist from Dalriada’s Pensions Management team into the client's team, Our enhanced processes, strengthened data security and ensured regulatory compliance resulted in clearer operations and reduced internal pressure.

Introduction

Our client, a leading UK maritime services provider based in Grangemouth, Scotland, operates a final salary pension scheme with approximately 2,500 members. The scheme was managed entirely in-house by a small team consisting of a Pensions Manager, a senior administrator, and two apprentice administrators. However, the departure of the senior administrator left a significant knowledge gap and a challenge for the pensions manager to provide the required support to the relatively inexperienced apprentice administrators placing considerable pressure on the remaining team members.

Challenge

The departure of the senior administrator created a significant gap in scheme knowledge and experience, placing added pressure on the remaining team. While the Pensions Manager provided oversight, the two apprentice administrators required additional support to navigate the scheme’s complexities effectively.

In addition to day-to-day administration, the team faced critical challenges, including:

• Ensuring accurate pension increase calculations.

• Implementing stronger data protection measures.

• Addressing regulatory changes, such as the new Lump Sum Allowance.

• Managing the scheme return process.

Structured guidance was essential to maintaining operational efficiency, with clear communication playing a critical role.

Solution

Dalriada’s Pensions Management team provided hands-on support, embedding a pensions management specialist within their team. Working closely with the Pensions Manager, a structured plan was developed to enhance governance and administration.

A blended working approach was implemented, with two days spent on-site each week, allowing direct interaction with the team while maintaining regular remote support. This ensured continuous oversight, even on remote working days.

Key improvements introduced included:

• Process Enhancements – Reviewing and refining scheme communications, administration workflows and pension increase calculations.

• Data Security – Strengthening processes to safeguard member data and prevent breaches.

• Regulatory Compliance – Providing training on the new Lump Sum Allowance and ensuring the scheme remained compliant.

• Operational Structure – Structured Administration – Introducing a monthly task list and ensuring the timely completion of the scheme return.

Dalriada’s extensive third-party administration experience was leveraged to bring best practices into the in-house administration model, delivering greater efficiency and structure.

Benefit

The secondment provided immediate stability to the team, providing immediate stability to maintain seamless scheme operations. By introducing a structured approach to governance and administration, Dalriada enhanced the team's ability to manage complex pensions processes confidently.

For the Pensions Manager, the reassurance of daily contact and ongoing collaboration meant they could focus on strategic oversight while trusting that scheme operations remained in safe hands. Having a dedicated Dalriada specialist on-site created a collaborative and supportive environment, strengthening the team’s confidence and capability.

Results

Over four months, the integration of Dalriada’s expertise has led to a well-structured and consistent administration process. The team now operates with improved clarity, efficiency, and confidence, ensuring long-term scheme sustainability.

Drawing from this experience, Dalriada’s Pensions Management team continues to showcase the value it brings to in-house administration teams. From secretarial services to day-to-day administration, Dalriada provides tailored solutions that ensure pension schemes remain robust, efficient, and well-supported.

Looking ahead, Dalriada remains committed to supporting the scheme, fostering a strong working relationship, and delivering high-quality pension management services.

Want to learn more?