Today the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced that Kate Jones will take up the post on 1 July, taking over from Arnold Wagner OBE.
Kate has been a non-executive member of our Board since February 2016. Her career includes extensive experience of the UK asset management industry gained as an investor, senior business leader and Board member across the financial services industry. She has held senior roles at JP Morgan, BlackRock, Schroders and M&G.
Kate is also an accomplished executive coach with a keen interest and focus on diversity and inclusion in the financial sector.
“I’m proud to have the opportunity to lead the PPF in the next important phase of its evolution as we look to our future challenges, while always ensuring we’re able to continue to offer the very best protection to those who rely on us”, said Kate on her new position.
“I’ve been fortunate to serve on the Board for the last five years and I’ve been impressed with the dedication and care shown to our members and levy payers by our employees. I look forward to working closely with them, our Board and executive team to further build our financial strength.”
Kate shared her appreciation for Arnold, who joined the Board in 2011 and has held the position of Chair since 2016.
“I want to thank Arnold Wagner for his leadership and his significant contribution to the organisation over the last 10 years,” she added.
Welcoming the appointment
Guy Opperman MP, Minister for Pensions said he was looking forward to building a constructive and effective relationship with Kate.
“No doubt she will continue the excellent work the PPF has been doing in offering protection to nearly 10 million members of defined benefit pension schemes, paying hard-working savers compensation, should their employer become insolvent,” he said.
Our Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Morley, also congratulated Kate.
“I warmly welcome the appointment of Kate Jones as our new Chair,” he said. “She knows us well and brings a wealth of experience from her distinguished career as a senior business leader across the financial services industry.
“Kate’s knowledge and leadership will be critical to us in meeting future challenges and continuing to deliver on our mission to protect members of defined benefit schemes.
“I look forward to working closely with her and our Board in the coming years. I would also like to thank Arnold Wagner for his outstanding contribution over the last decade.”