Research and Policy Manager

Join LGPS Central at a pivotal moment — where strong policy and research capability supports long term investment outcomes. At LGPS Central, we're at the heart of one of the most exciting shifts in the pensions and investment industry. With the Government's Fit for Future agenda and wider pensions reform driving real change, now is the perfect time to join us and play a leading role in shaping how billions of pounds are invested for the benefit of local communities.

We are looking for a Policy and Research Manager to support our policy, research and advocacy work on behalf of our Partner Funds.

Working with the Director of Policy, you will help shape, coordinate and deliver activity that strengthens our position on key policy, regulatory and investment matters affecting the Local Government Pension Scheme. The role blends research, policy analysis, stakeholder coordination and project delivery. You will work across several workstreams, turn complex topics into clear messages and support high quality outputs for both internal and external audiences.

The ideal candidate will be organised, collaborative and confident engaging with senior stakeholders across government, local authority funds, regulators and the wider pensions industry.

Draft policy reports, consultation responses, policy papers, and briefing notes in collaboration with the Director of Policy and internal subject matter experts.
Monitor and summarise relevant policy, legislative, and regulatory developments, ensuring key stakeholders are kept informed of emerging issues.
Undertake policy and data research, drawing together insight and evidence to support LGPS Central’s position on key topics such as pooling, pensions reform, responsible investment, and local investment.
Support the development and delivery of commissioned research projects, including procurement, data gathering, and quality assurance.
Provide day-to-day support to the Director of Policy on all aspects of policy development, research and stakeholder engagement.
Help design and maintain a forward plan for research and policy work, ensuring priorities are tracked and delivered on schedule.
Support the coordination of LGPS Central’s engagement with government departments, regulators, and trade bodies.
Work closely with the Communications team to help develop external publications, reports, and thought leadership materials.
Maintain accurate records of policy correspondence, responses, and key stakeholder interactions.
Contribute to the overall success of the Policy function by sharing ideas, improving processes, and ensuring alignment with LGPS Central’s strategic objectives.
LGPS Central (LGPSC) Ltd is the FCA regulated asset manager for eight local authority pension funds across the Midlands. LGPSC is jointly owned on an equal shares basis by those Partner Fund, and it is responsible for managing £45bn+ of their assets. It is one of eight Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) asset pools in the UK.
Cheshire Pension Fund
Derbyshire Pension Fund
Leicestershire Pension Fund
Nottinghamshire Pension Fund
Shropshire Pension Fund
Staffordshire Pension Fund
West Midlands Pension Fund
Worcestershire Pension Fund

The Company is committed to responsible investment and has made responsible investment a core part of the investment process in every asset class.

The Company moved to new premises at i9, Wolverhampton Interchange in January 2022, close to local transport links.

Our objective is to be a leading investment management company working with and for our Partner Funds. With a focus on value for money and performance we want to aspire to be one of the best because this is how we will deliver the superior investment returns and low costs for our Partner Funds.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong track record and extensive experience in private debt markets, gained within an asset manager, asset owner, investment bank, advisor or rating agency. Experience working with or on behalf of pension funds or other institutional investors is highly desirable.

Previous experience in a policy, research, or public affairs role, ideally within central or local government, financial services, or a trade association.
Strong understanding of public policy and political processes in the UK.
Excellent research, analytical, and written communication skills.
Flexible and proactive approach, willing to get involved in a wide range of activities to support the Policy function.
Interest in the LGPS, pensions policy, and sustainable long-term investment.

Degree (or equivalent experience) in public policy, economics, finance, politics, or a related discipline.
Postgraduate qualification in public policy, economics, or research is desirable.
CIPFA, PMI, PensionsUK, CFA UK, or equivalent) would be an advantage.

We are proud to provide our people with a premium and exclusive benefits package and we are continually improving the rewards we offer. Competitive salary
~ An enhanced and generous Pension Scheme
~30 days' paid holiday plus bank holidays
~An extra paid Company Day in addition to paid holidays
~ Excellent Learning & Development Opportunities
~ Welfare and Familyfriendly policies
~ Access to our Employee Assistance Programme 247 Health & Wellbeing Support
~ Vitality Private Medical Insurance
~ Hybrid Working
~ Company Service Awards
~ Cycle to Work Scheme
~ Company Electric Vehicle Scheme
~ Winner of the Cultural Awareness Initiative of the Year FT Advisors Diversity in Finance Awards 2023
~ Winner of Diversity and Inclusion Award LAPF In Investments Award 2023