The Pensions Regulator (TPR) has announced the appointment of Richard Knox as executive director, strategy, policy and analysis, and as a member of TPR Board, effective from February.

He brings over two decades of experience in financial services regulation and public policy to the role, and currently serves as co-director of the Financial Services Group at HM Treasury.

In his role at the Treasury, Knox has overseen international financial services policy, Brexit negotiations, global trade agreements, and regulatory frameworks for capital markets, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) finance, as well as prudential banking. 

Knox has also previously led EU negotiations on legislative files such as the European Market Infrastructure Regulation and the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive as deputy director for securities and markets.

During the financial crisis, he contributed to the Asset Protection Scheme for RBS, as well as the Comprehensive Spending Review, early in his career. 

More recently, Knox directed the multi-agency team that delivered the Pensions Investment Review following the 2024 election, collaborating across TPR, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Financial Conduct Authority, and the Bank of England.

Commenting on the appointment, TPR chief executive, Nausicaa Delfas, stated: “Pensions are at a pivotal moment of change, and we are continuing to bring in the talent and expertise we need to raise standards of trusteeship, drive value for money and support savers at retirement.
 
“Richard’s extensive experience and leadership will be invaluable as we work with the government and the market to shape the future of pensions.”  

Adding to this, Knox said he is “looking forward” to helping deliver on TPR’s mission to protect, enhance, and innovate at this “important moment of change” in pensions.

“We have a real opportunity to fix unfinished business in the pension system and make sure pensions provide people with a sustainable income to last throughout their later life,” he added.

TPR said Knox’s appointment supported its transformation into a risk-based and outcome-focused regulator. 

Over the past 18 months, the regulator has invested in its digital and data capabilities and strengthened its prudential skill sets by hiring more people from the pensions industry and people with technical experience.

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