Chief Pensions Officer

Nova Scotia Pension Services Corporation (NS Pension) is a growing non-profit corporation dedicated to a wide range of investment, pension administration, and compliance services for two of Nova Scotia’s leading pension plans. In total, we manage more than $14 billion in plan assets, serve over 65 employers and 81,000 members, retirees, and survivors.

We administer the pension benefits and investment assets of the Public Service Superannuation Plan (PSSP or the Plan) and the Teachers’ Pension Plan as well as the pension benefits of the MLA Pension Plan and three former Sydney Steel pension plans.

Our Culture

We take pride in our culture as it defines who we are, and shapes what we aspire to be.

Our Vision

To strengthen the retirement of Nova Scotians

Our Mission

To provide outstanding pension services

Our Values

Commitment: to provide the highest quality service
Trust: to act with integrity and to make sound decisions
Respect: to show consideration to our members and our colleagues
Expertise: to build and retain a diverse and talented team
Collaboration: to build mutually beneficial relationships

NS Pension is seeking an exceptional executive leader to serve as Chief Pensions Officer (CPO). The CPO is responsible for leading, evolving, and delivering pension services that support thousands of plan members. As a key member of the executive team and reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the CPO will provide strategic leadership in the administration, governance, and growth of the pension plans we manage. This is a high-impact opportunity to drive service excellence and operational efficiency, while enhancing organizational growth.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Organizational Growth
   1. Define and implement long-term strategic plans that expand membership and enhance service delivery.
   2. Strengthen NS Pension’s operational framework, technology adoption, and risk management practices.
   3. Provide strategic counsel to the CEO and Trustees to align the organization’s mission with future industry trends.
2. Develop, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team committed to excellence in pension administration.
3. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all levels of the organization.
4. Lead by example, championing a member-focused service approach.
5. Pension Governance & Fiduciary Oversight
   1. Ensure compliance with legislative, regulatory, and fiduciary requirements related to pension administration.
   2. Implement best practices in risk management, financial oversight, and business continuity planning.
   3. Strengthen the organization’s governance framework, ensuring transparency and accountability.
6. Stakeholder Engagement & Business Development
   1. Lead efforts to expand pension plan membership into new sectors, including private and non-profit organizations.
   2. Serve as a key representative in building relationships with employers, government, trustees, unions, and industry partners.
   3. Enhance the visibility and reputation of NS Pension and the Public Service Superannuation Plan (PSSP) through targeted outreach and innovative service offerings.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be a visionary executive leader with a proven track record in pension administration, financial services, or a related field. They will possess strategic acumen, operational expertise, and the ability to drive organizational transformation.

Core Competencies

1. Strategic Vision & Execution – Ability to develop and execute long-term strategies that align with the organization’s mission.
2. People Leadership & Team Development – Experience in leading high-performing teams, fostering a culture of excellence.
3. Governance & Compliance – Knowledge of pension administration, regulatory frameworks, and fiduciary responsibilities.
4. Stakeholder Engagement & Influence – Strong ability to build and sustain relationships with employers, government, trustees, unions, and industry leaders.
5. Innovation & Change Management – A track record of driving operational improvements, leveraging technology, and enhancing service delivery.
6. Financial & Risk Acumen – Experience managing large-scale budgets, risk frameworks, and governance structures.

Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment where all employees, members and clients feel valued, respected, and supported. How you identify is important to us. We encourage you to share your preferred pronouns on your resume.

If you are unable or limited in your ability to complete the application, testing or interview process, we would be happy to assist you. Please provide the type of accommodation you are requesting in your cover letter and/or resume.

What We Offer

This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly specialized, mission-driven organization committed to delivering long-term value to pension plan members. As CPO, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pension administration, ensuring sustainable growth, and driving service excellence. Interested candidates can send their cover letter and resume to Shardeigh McGillivray at shardeigh@venor.ca & Anna Bryant at anna@venor.ca

NS Pension offers meaningful, purpose-driven work, with a competitive compensation package which includes:

1. Comprehensive extended health and dental benefits for you and your family
2. Health & wellness programming including a comprehensive Employee & Family Assistance Program and an annual Health Spending Account
3. Work from home bank
4. Robust professional development policy including tuition reimbursement

Our premises are within the Purdy’s Wharf complex which provides amenities such as an on-site daycare and fitness centre. Our office is connected to the downtown pedway system and situated on Halifax’s beautiful waterfront providing easy access to ferry and bus transit hubs, banks, restaurants, and shopping.