Dalriada. A better podcast

In this episode of Dalriada. A better podcast, Vassos Vassou is joined by Sam Taylor to explore how batch fiduciary management can help smaller defined benefit schemes access stronger investment governance, clearer oversight and more cost-effective implementation. The conversation explains how grouping schemes for the fiduciary manager selection process can create scale, while still allowing each scheme to retain a tailored investment strategy aligned to its own funding position, journey plan and long-term objectives. Linked to the wider Dalriada.Together model, the episode highlights a practical, proportionate way for smaller schemes to reduce complexity, improve governance and keep their investment strategy connected to the scheme’s wider goals.

Independent oversight is moving up the agenda for LGPS Funds. In our latest Dalriada podcast, Mark Clews and Caroline Allensby-Green discuss the evolving role of the Independent Person, what it means in practice for governance and decision-making, and how objective challenge can help Funds respond to new requirements with confidence.
The episode explores why the role matters now, the value it can bring across governance, investment, funding and administration, and the practical questions Funds should consider when embedding independent oversight into existing structures.
With Dalriada already supporting Funds in this area, including recent Independent Person appointments for Worcestershire Pension Fund and West Midlands Pension Fund, the conversation offers timely insight for Funds considering how best to strengthen scrutiny, accountability and practical decision-making.
Listen to the episode to hear what good independent oversight can look like in practice, and how Funds can approach the role in a way that is clear, proportionate and genuinely useful.
Contact us at LGPS@dalriadatrustees.co.uk to find out more. 

The episode explores the growing pressures faced by in‑house pensions professionals, who are navigating rapid regulatory change, rising governance expectations, and limited team capacity. Gavin Wilkinson and Steve Jones discuss how this environment can feel isolating, making it difficult to find context, challenge advisers effectively, or benchmark against peers. They highlight that many schemes - large and small - share the same challenges, and argue that community, open conversation, and peer support are becoming just as crucial as technical guidance. The episode ultimately emphasises the value of building networks that offer practical insights, reassurance, and shared learning so no one feels they’re facing these challenges alone.
 

Today we’re talking about a part of the industry that’s grown significantly over the last couple of years: the sole trustee model. But we’re looking at it through a different lens - the people behind it. 
I'm Ryan Hubley and I'll be hosting today's podcast. Joining me is Barbara Fewkes, Head of Sole Trusteeship and Senior Professional Trustee at Dalriada. 

Pension consolidation is one of the biggest shifts in the industry today. 
In this episode, Dalriada’s experts will explain:
Why industry consolidation is accelerating and what it means for smaller DB schemes.
How Dalriada.Together combines trusteeship, administration, actuarial and investment into one seamless model.
Real case studies showing 20–50% cost savings and measurable governance improvements.