The role

What the Trustees do

We look after the Fund’s assets. It’s up to us to run the Fund in line with the Fund’s rules and UK pension law, while taking account of members’ interests.

To do this we:

look after the Fund’s investments and finances to make sure members receive the benefits they’re entitled to
work closely with the Fund’s advisers, so that we can make informed decisions about the Fund’s future
keep members informed about what’s happening with the Fund through things like ‘Pensions Brief’ and the website, so we can support members with their financial planning

What’s involved

Being a Trustee can be enjoyable and rewarding. You’ll be part of a team that’s working together in the interest of members. It’s a great opportunity to get insight into how the Fund works, to learn from expert advisers, and ultimately, to make a difference to Fund members and their families. It does come with a time commitment. Broadly speaking, you should allow 25 days a year*.

This should cover:

attending meetings, like regular Trustee Board meetings, and meetings of any committees you belong to
preparing for meetings, including reading papers

In your first 6 months, we’ll also give you training to bring you up to speed. So it might take up a bit more of your time to start with, we estimate this will be in the region of 6 extra days.

Before you stand as a candidate, please think about how you’d balance being a Trustee with your lifestyle and your other commitments, both in and out of work. You should discuss this with your line manager, so they are aware you are applying for the role and, if successful, you will have a future time commitment as a Trustee.

Your term will last for four years. At the end of the four years, you can apply to be selected again for one more term or step down. If you cease to be an active member during your term, you will have to step down. This could be for example, if you opt out of the UUKPF, cease to become eligible for the UUKPF, or leave Unilever.

* You will be given time away from your day job to allow you to perform your Trustee duties. We normally expect you to need up to 15 days each year. This time makes some allowance for reading and preparation for meetings. However, we believe it is reasonable for Unilever to expect you to do a fair proportion of this reading in your own time, as well as while you’re travelling.

You don’t need to be a pensions expert

We welcome people from any background. We’ll give you the training to understand the topics and issues you need to know about for the role. And you’ll be supported by specialist advisers who help you in the more complex areas. You will however need to feel comfortable asking advisers questions before you make any decisions.

You don’t need to have worked here for years

There’s no minimum number of years you need to have worked at Unilever to become a Trustee. We are keen to hear from people at the beginning of their working life, as well as those who’ve been here for longer.

How we’ll support you

Before you start, you’ll get training to get you up and running. We’ll explain the terms you’ll come across, and help prepare you for the areas you’ll be involved in.

All Trustees receive regular ongoing training, and are encouraged to identify any additional training they think is needed or would be helpful. And when you have questions, there are people who’ll be happy to help you.

What it takes to be a great Trustee - The “Trustee Competencies”

The Board have decided on 8 “Trustee competencies” which are the qualities they think makes a great Trustee. You will discuss how you meet and have demonstrated these throughout the application process.

Strategic mindset:
You are forward looking, you explore ideas and possibilities, adapt to emerging trends, and consider the future impact of today’s decisions.

Customer Oriented:
You place the people you serve at the centre of decisions, seek their insights to inform your choices, and act in their best interest.

Manage Complexity:
You navigate complex information comfortably, focusing on what is most relevant. You identify the main consequences and implications of different options.

Demonstrate Decision Quality:
You utilise a blend of analysis, experience, and judgement when making decisions. You consider all relevant factors and apply appropriate decision-making criteria.

Ensure Accountability:
You act with a clear sense of ownership, follow through on your commitments, and hold others accountable.

Value Differences:
You seek out and value diverse experiences and perspectives, partnering successfully with individuals from various backgrounds.

Communicate Effectively:
You communicate clearly in various settings, listen attentively, and encourage diverse opinions.

Demonstrate Integrity and Trustworthiness:
You act with transparency and integrity and align your actions with your words.

For a more in-depth description of the role, you can read the Trustee Role Description. You will need to read this before applying.

Trustee Role Description

The Pensions Regulator has also produced guidance about the duties and responsibilities of pension scheme trustees.