Lesley Alexander has been elected as the new president of the Pensions Management Institute (PMI) with effect from its 44th Annual General Meeting (AGM) today (6 October).

Alexander takes over the role from Lesley Carline, who stepped down after completing her two-year term as PMI president.

Alexander is in her second term on the Advisory Council and has been a non-executive director on the board since 2019, when she was elected as vice-president.

She will now chair the Advisory Council while remaining in her board positions.

With over 20 years’ experience in the pensions industry, Alexander is currently a director at ZenZeo consulting, and was previously partner and managing director at Ferrier Pearce.

She has also previously held the role of CEO of the HSBC Bank Pension Trust.

“As the PMI continues in its goal to encourage high standards across the UK pension industry, the role of president is crucial,” commented PMI CEO, Gareth Tancred. “That is why we are delighted to welcome Lesley Alexander on board as president, who will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our leadership team.

“Lesley with take over from her fellow Lesley – Lesley Carline – having worked closely with her as vice-president for the past two years. We would like to offer our sincere gratitude to Lesley Carline, who has made a huge contribution during her two-year term and been an enormous support to the PMI for many years.”

Smart Pension director of global clients, Tim Phillips, will remain in his role as vice-president for a further year, as well as maintaining his position on the PMI board as non-executive director.

Barnett Waddingham principal, Sara Cook, has been elected as a second vice-president and will join Alexander and Phillips on the PMI board as a non-executive director as part of her role.

Commenting on her appointment, Alexander said: “As the pensions industry battles the challenges that the global coronavirus pandemic has created, I am delighted to support the PMI as it aims to guide the industry through these unchartered waters. I have long been involved in the presidential council and look forward to beginning my term as president.

“I would particularly like to thank my colleague Lesley Carline for her service over the past two years and I hope to continue her legacy throughout my period as president.”

The PMI has also named First Actuarial head of pensions administration, Robert Wakefield, and Mercer regional director, Raymonde Nathan, to the advisory council.

Alan Whalley and Lorraine Harper have also been re-elected to the council to serve their second terms.

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