Pensions

Shepherd and Wedderburn

Praised for being 'knowledgeable about all aspects of pensions', Shepherd and Wedderburn advises companies and trustees from diverse sectors such as financial services, transport, and higher education. The practice is co-led by pensions specialists Louisa Knox, Andrew Holehouse, and Edwin Mustard. Knox focuses on defined benefit and defined contribution schemes, scheme restructuring, and ESG compliance. Holehouse supports trustees of major occupational pension schemes with risk management and transactional issues, while Mustard is experienced in general scheme advisory work and pension disputes. Additionally, director Kirsty Headden offers expertise in the pensions implications of corporate activities.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Andrew Holehouse is a very authoritative partner. Director Kirsty Headden is always available and on top of issues.’
‘Shepherd and Wedderburn has a big team with resources across other disciplines such as litigation.’
‘The team is friendly, personable, and can communicate effectively in different mediums.’
‘The team has a very collaborative approach, adjusting to the requirements of the client. Their expertise is excellent and they are well respected.’
‘Louisa Knox has always focussed on maintaining valuable relationships.’
‘The uniqueness of Shepherd & Wedderburn is their human touch. The lawyers take the time to explain difficult concepts in a non-technical language that is easier to comprehend.’
‘Shepherd & Wedderburn's pensions team is the best in Scotland in terms of its depth and breadth.’
‘Louisa Knox is superb - bright, articulate, sensible. Kirsty Headden is delightful, hugely knowledgeable, and her advice is well-thought-through and articulate.'

Key clients

The Trustees of the Association of British Insurers Pensions and Assurance Scheme
Trustees of the Stagecoach Group Pension Scheme
The Trustees of the University of St Andrews Superannuation and Life Assurance Scheme
The Weir Group Pension and Retirement Savings Scheme
Trustee of the abrdn (SLSPS) Pension Scheme
Trustees of the A.G. Barr plc Retirement Benefits Scheme
Trustee of the Universal Music Group Pension Scheme
Trustee of the Scottish Hydro-Electric Pension Scheme
Trustee of the Brewin Dolphin Retirement Benefits Scheme / Trustee of the Brewin Dolphin Pension Fund

Work highlights

Advised the Trustees of the Association of British Insurers Pensions and Assurance Scheme in securing a full buy-in for all remaining un-insured benefits.
Acted as legal adviser for the Trustees of the University of St Andrews Superannuation and Life Assurance Scheme.
Advised the Trustee of the Weir Group Pension and Retirement Savings Scheme on the Scheme’s funding structure and on a pensioner buy-in transaction involving a deferred premium agreement.

Lawyers

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