The Caithness and North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership has
welcomed the significant investment announced by Babcock in its
Pension Administration Office (PAO) based in Thurso.
As parent company of the PAO, Babcock has engaged leading
international pension expert, Aon Hewitt, through a management
agreement, to work alongside us to grow and develop the business.
The investment is designed to secure the long-term future of the
existing jobs and create a platform for further new job creation in
the region.
The aim of the investment is to produce an organisation which
can compete even more effectively, both at a national and
international level, and which will have the ability to grow with
new clients without adversely impacting on existing clients.
Additionally, it will implement and support a full training and
development programme for existing staff.
Sir Anthony Cleaver, Chairman of the Caithness and North Sutherland
Regeneration Partnership said "The Partnership is delighted to see
Babcock supporting and growing the Pension Administration Office in
Thurso.
"The financial and business services industry is one of the
Partnership's key priority areas and Babcock's commitment to
ensuring that the Pensions office is equipped for future growth
will help sustain the skilled jobs that currently exist and
hopefully bring further employment over the coming years."
Andrew Birkett, Group Pensions Manager of Babcock said 'The
hardworking nature of the Thurso-based team, their track record for
providing a good quality service aided by our partnership with the
UK's leading pensions administration provider ,gives the business
an undisputable platform from which to grow. Babcock is committed
to the local area and it is hoped that the drive to expand the
business will have the added benefit of creating further
opportunities for local employment.'
Stuart Heatley, Managing Director, Benefits Administration for Aon
Hewitt said, "We are delighted to have this opportunity to extend
the work Aon Hewitt already undertake for Babcock by including the
PAO Thurso. We look forward to introducing a measured programme of
transformation in order to build on the high quality service
already provided to their existing clients and to scheme
members."
John Thurso, MP added "I welcome this important announcement by
Babcock. The Pensions Office has demonstrated over many years the
high standards and professional service typical of our area. This
investment will enable the office to grow and demonstrate to others
the potential for locating their support businesses in the Far
North."