Hymans Robertson, the leading pensions and risk consultancy, has appointed Alistair Russell-Smith, Partner as Head of its Corporate Defined Benefit (DB) practice.

Alistair, who joined the firm in 2000 has been a Partner for the last four years and primarily advises Hymans’ corporate and charity clients on their funding and investment strategies, benefits strategy and member options, and de-risking.

Commenting on his appointment, Alistair Russell-Smith, Partner and Head of Corporate DB at Hymans Robertson says:

“This is a pivotal time for Defined Benefit pensions and we are committed to investing in our DB practice until the last member’s pension has been paid. DB schemes and funding deficits have, rightfully, been the subject of many headlines in recent months with the high profile struggles of Carillion and British Steel. However, by focusing on the cashflows, rather than deficits, and then selecting the most appropriate funding and investment strategy for the overall lifetime of a scheme, we can effectively work towards outcomes that are beneficial for both scheme sponsors and trustees.

 “Scheme consolidation in various forms is likely to become an increasingly prominent issue.  The announcement of a consultation on an accreditation framework in the DWP’s DB White Paper will undoubtedly help to build confidence in this viable option and I’m excited to see the direction this leads our clients.”

Alistair takes over the role from Jon Hatchett, also a Partner, who will be moving to another internal role within Hymans Robertson.