After working with four pension administrators in 20 years, Managing Director of Dorset-based Langham Industries, Chris Langham, was pretty certain about what he wanted from his fifth.

Having employed three of the biggest names in the business, Chris is not hugely impressed with many of the trappings that are associated with size. Looking to improve the quality of his administration service, he went looking for an organisation with the right combination of dedication and expertise to suit his business.

Explains Chris, "Personally I no longer want to deal with sales people who are forced to refer even standard enquiries somewhere back up the line. That inevitably means we're left waiting for up to several months for an answer. In line with many other employers, I just want high quality service and absolute competence when it comes to administering our Pension Scheme."

Appointing Hughes Price Walker in spring of this year, Chris Langham has already noticed a difference. One is a significant improvement in the performance of the Fund's investments, which have benefited from HPW's ability to source similar investment products at much more competitive fees.

The other is a level of service which comes from the direct support of highly experienced personnel.

Adds Chris, "There are many reasons why we are getting such an improved service with HPW, but the key is the seniority and expertise of the people. For me there are proven benefits in employing a firm who are actuaries as well as administrators - and then dealing with someone at the top who is actuary, administrator and partner as well."

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