The BT Pension Scheme (BTPS) has announced, with immediate effect, the appointment of Helen Charnley as an employer nominated Trustee Director. Helen succeeds David Viles who has stepped down from the Trustee Board.

BTPS is one of the UK’s largest defined benefit (DB) pension schemes with over £33 billion of assets and c.253,000 members. Each year, the Scheme pays out c.£2.9 billion in pension payments to the 213,000 members of the Scheme who are retired and their beneficiaries.

Helen is the Director of Group Audit, Risk and Controls at BT Group. Prior to joining BT in September 2023, Helen had a similar leadership role at J Sainsbury plc. Before this, Helen worked in professional services leading and delivering audit and risk services for a variety of clients.

Commenting on her appointment, Jill Mackenzie, Chair, BTPS said: “Helen’s knowledge of the BT Group and her deep experience in audit and risk will help strengthen the collective skills of the Trustee Board – I’m delighted to welcome her. I would like to thank David Viles for his significant contribution to the Trustee Board over the past six years and for the commitment he has shown to the Scheme and its members.”

Helen Charnley said: “It’s a privilege to join the Trustee Board of one of the largest and most influential DB schemes in the UK. I look forward to working with fellow Trustees to help ensure the best outcomes for members, the Scheme and the sponsor.”