From collective DC and master trusts, de-risking, and corporate deal support, to ESG and sustainability investment, data protection, and insolvency and restructuring, the pensions team at Squire Patton Boggs represents some of the biggest schemes in the pensions world. With a sector-focused approach for schemes in regulated utilities, such as the water, nuclear, and electricity practices, the team specialises in public sector pensions. Matthew Giles leads the national practice, while Wendy Hunter, with nearly three decades in practice for employers and trustees on all aspects of pensions law, leads in London. Other noteworthy practitioners alongside her are Kirsty McLean and Chris Harper.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘SPB has a great team - they are always on top of the work we need completing, with clear, and non-technical, analysis for their output.’
‘Chris Harper always goes above and beyond and is a testament to SPB. The work is always to a very high standard and easy to understand.'
‘They have extensive expertise in all areas of pensions, which enables them to deal with any non-standard matter, no matter how convoluted or complex. Responses are prompt, and they keep me informed at all times.'
T'hey offer thought leadership and training sessions in addition to regular update meetings. They are keen to be involved in new propositional developments, drawing on their experience to provide useful insight. They explain things in a way that I can understand.'
- 'Wendy Hunter stands head and shoulders above partners in other firms that I have dealt with. She is experienced with a wealth of technical pensions knowledge, friendly, approachable and pragmatic, always giving strong advice.'
‘The team is excellent - they are always available even at short notice and work collaboratively with us. They understand our objectives and work with us to find pragmatic solutions and provide clear practical advice.’
Work highlights
Advising the trustees of the £2bn pension plans on the potential effects of the contentious restructuring of Thames Water, in response to very public and highly politicised financial and operational difficulties experienced by Thames Water.
Advised on the launch of the UK’s first collective defined contribution plan, the Royal Mail Collective Pension Plan.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Wendy Hunter; Matthew Giles
Other key lawyers
Chris Harper; Kirsty McLean