In response to increased client demand for retirement planning services, Punter Southall Aspire, has appointed Jane Middleton as a Principal to run and develop its Retirement Services division.

Jane brings to the role over 21 years’ experience working in the financial services industry. She has specialist knowledge and experience of workplace savings and pensions, including defined contribution pensions, pension planning, managing pension schemes, pension governance and importantly, annuities.

She has worked as the Principal of Punter Southall Aspire’s York office for the past eighteen months. In her new role, Jane will be servicing existing clients and developing new ones across the UK, whilst recruiting a national team of retirement consultants.

Jane Middleton said, “Since the introduction of the pension freedom legislation in April 2015 and the changes to the state pension age, clients are demanding better solutions and advice about retirement planning options for their employees. Increasingly, people are choosing to work longer, so this demand will grow.”

“We want to enable members of pension schemes to improve their retirement benefits and outcomes. I am delighted to lead this growing part of the business. We’re creating an extensive choice of retirement options for our clients’ employees or pension scheme members, whether their affairs are complex or straightforward.”

Gareth Sawyer, Managing Director, Punter Southall Aspire said, “We expect high demand for our retirement services led by Jane Middleton. She brings to the role huge expertise and experience of advising employers and pension scheme members about all aspects of pensions as well as retirement planning.”

“This week the Financial Conduct Authority reported[i] that 30% of consumers now go into draw-down without taking advice, compared to just 5% before pension freedoms. There is a major need in the market for professional advice and guidance for employers and their staff about all aspects of retirement planning – something we look forward to providing as a key part of our Retirement Services.”