Pensions professionals feel energised yet stretched, Aptia survey finds

Nearly three-fifths of pension trustees¹ (59%) described working in pensions right now as simultaneously energising, overwhelming, fascinating and exhausting, in findings from a survey of trustees and pension professionals conducted during Aptia’s annual Showcase event at London’s Sea Containers building on 21 April. 

For those singling out a single adjective, the positives of working in pensions beat the negatives, with just over one fifth (21%) calling the profession ‘fascinating’, with 1 in 10 describing it as ‘energising’.

Those respondents who were ‘exhausted’ or ‘overwhelmed’ were fewer in number at 8% and 3% respectively.

Sue Doughty, Head of UK Pensions Administration at Aptia, said: “Working in pensions today is demanding, but that’s precisely what makes it rewarding. The fact that so many professionals describe the industry as energising and fascinating – despite keeping pace with regulation, AI and wider industry changes – speaks to a sector full of opportunity, variety and purpose.

“Careers in pensions administration, in particular, looks very different to the outdated stereotypes. The role now combines data expertise, technology, regulatory insight and customer experience. That combination is challenging—but it’s also what makes the sector exciting, future‑focused and a strong career choice.”

1. Survey of up to 78 trustees and pension professionals was conducted at the Aptia showcase event on 21 April 2026 and is intended to show a snapshot of opinion of attendees.