Pensions specialist ready to offer advice

OLDHAM solicitors Pearson Hinchliffe have recruited a pensions specialist to offer advice to worried investors.

Simon Taylor (41), from Clarksfield, who has 11 years experience as an independent financial adviser, has joined a department headed by Richard Eastwood to further strengthen the thriving financial services at the firm’s Queen Street offices.

He previously worked for the Royal London group.

Working directly with company directors, HR personnel and people involved in the operation of company pension schemes, the duo will offer a dedicated corporate service to help companies manage the liability from their existing occupational pension schemes and identify new opportunities.

Mr Taylor said: “With growing uncertainty in financial markets, it has never been more important for companies to review their pensions regularly.

“A review should be done several times a year, but this can be hard to achieve practically.

“I aim to help each client and prospective client to determine whether their fund is favourable, can be risk-minimised, do current contributions need to be reviewed, and ask whether there is a more competitive, cheaper alternative or a more modern dynamic scheme.”

He will also provide on-going support and advice to individuals on their pension and retirement plans, adding: “Retirement is supposed to be the time to relax and enjoy the benefits.

“But often an expert is needed to identify the best pension scheme, and to ensure the required income upon retirement.”

Partner Michael Pitt, who oversees the Financial Services department, said: “We are very committed to this important area of financial advice.

“Our clients will benefit from Simon’s significant experience in dealing with the increasing challenges facing industry.

“I have no doubt our pension service will expand the breadth of our expertise — both legal and financial.”