Please note: this programme is subject to change

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Registration and Breakfast

Welcome to the Defined Contribution Conference Manchester, hosted by Professional Pensions.

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Welcome and Opening Remarks
Speaker
Editor-in-Chief
Professional Pensions
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Pension policy reform – what’s happening and what’s missing

Recent policy developments for DC schemes, including the Pension Schemes Bill and the Part One of the Pensions Review (investment), marked a significant shift in the UK pensions landscape. More change is likely to arise from Part Two (adequacy).

With major implications for trustees, sponsors, and scheme members, PPI Deputy Director Dr Suzy Morrissey will unpack what these changes mean in practice, what’s missing from the pensions landscape, and what may lay ahead for schemes.

Speaker
Deputy Director
Pensions Policy Institute
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DC Investing in Transition: the case for Private Credit

Private credit is entering a dynamic new phase — expanding beyond traditional direct lending into a broader ecosystem of corporate and asset-backed opportunities. With the market projected to surpass $2.5 trillion by 2030, this asset class is becoming an increasingly compelling option for DC schemes.

M&G will explore how private credit can enhance portfolio resilience, support long-term growth for DC members, and align with the needs of both late-stage accumulation and post-retirement strategies.

Speaker
Head of Private Market Solutions
M&G Investments
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Helping pension savers navigate their retirement: What 10 years of New Choices, Big Decision has taught us.

Sharing learnings and insights from a unique 10-year piece of research which highlights the challenges faced by people as they come to access their DC savings pots. This session asks what the future might hold. By hearing from savers firsthand we will discuss how the industry can ready itself for the challenges presented to us in the Pensions Schemes Bill. We will also share how we intend to help our 7 million members.

Speaker
Proposition Director
People's Pension
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Networking Break & Refreshments
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Cutting through the noise: how are DC schemes and asset managers approaching private markets, and what should schemes and advisors be considering when thinking through allocations?

With the announcement of Mansion House II, the stage is set for private market investments to play an increasing role within DC pension schemes asset allocations. So how can schemes successfully implement private markets, to ensure better member outcomes?

This session will address:

  • How providers, schemes and managers are approaching private markets
  • Key considerations for those reviewing the different approaches
  • How will the requirement to invest in the UK impact outcomes, and are there sufficient opportunities to invest
Speaker
Head of Client Solutions and Product
Future Growth Capital
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Pensions investment review: Implications of the government’s final report

Speaker
Defined Contribution and Solutions Managing Director
SEI
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Addressing the challenge of DC Adequacy

A new Pensions Commission has been launched by the government to map out “a path to a pensions system that is truly adequate”. What will that mean for DC Pension schemes? What is an adequate pension, and can a broad brush approach from government help to deliver what people need on an individual basis? In this session Aon DC experts Andrew Greaves and Chloe Ludden look at the current position for DC savers in the UK and how pension schemes and employers can focus support to deliver better outcomes for those that need it most.

Speakers
Senior Consultant
Aon
Associate Consultant
Aon
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Managing risk, maximising impact: Navigating the climate transition

As the net-zero transition accelerates amid global uncertainty, pension schemes face increasing pressure to integrate climate considerations while delivering sustainable, long-term value. This session delves into how trustees and providers can best navigate climate risks and opportunities—balancing fiduciary duties, ESG integration, and member outcomes.

This session will address:

  • How to best implement good sustainability investment practice
  • How to embed ESG principles into portfolio design and management
  • The intersection of climate change, fiduciary duty, and sustainable investment practices
  • Identifying investable climate solutions and impact opportunities aligned with long-term pension goals
Speakers
Founder Director
Ario Advisory
Professional Trustee
Dalriada
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Closing Remarks & Lunch