M&S PENSION TRUST - Key Persons


Alison Houston

Alison recognises that the Trustee Directors have significant responsibility in ensuring the Scheme is run properly and, as a MNTD, puts herself in the shoes of the members to be a voice for them.

Ann Govier

Ann feels privileged to be nominated as a Trustee Director as she knows how important the Scheme is to members' future financial wellbeing. Her previous experience at M&S means she knows how and when to seek external advice and the importance of keeping up to date with complex and ever-changing legislation.

Gareth Derbyshire - Chairman

Job Titles:
  • Chairman
Gareth trained as an actuary and has worked in investment consultancy with a range of banks. He brings independent technical expertise in pensions and investments to the role.

Graham Bennett - Chairman

Job Titles:
  • Chairman
Graham was honoured to be asked about becoming a Trustee Director as he knows just how important the Scheme is to so many people. His role as Chair of NBIG means he is able to ask the challenging questions needed to deliver the best outcomes.

Graham Oakley - Chairman

Job Titles:
  • Chairman
Graham has been a Trustee since 2000 and his legal background and experience in corporate governance means he brings this knowledge and leadership to the Board. Graham recognises that many members will be relying on the Scheme to provide for them for many years and so wants to make sure the Scheme is healthy, well-run and able to provide the benefits earned.

Kate Upcraft

Kate applied to be a Trustee Director to make sure others can rely on the same financial security the Scheme provides to her. Her previous experience in the payroll profession means she always pays close attention to the details to get the best outcomes.

Natalie Winterfrost - Chairman

Job Titles:
  • Chairman
  • Professional Trustee
Natalie is a professional trustee with experience in valuations, investment consulting, asset management and more recently ESG. She draws on a wide range of experience to help her in her current role.

Richard Fox

Richard wants to give back to a Scheme that is such an important part of colleague benefits. His work at M&S means he's good with numbers and at working collaboratively across teams.

Samantha Pitt

Job Titles:
  • Accountant
Samantha is a qualified accountant with nine years of experience as a pensions trustee across a range of schemes. Her previous roles in corporate finance and treasury means she has a good understanding of how employers operate.

Sean Burnard

Sean is a qualified actuary who chairs several trustee boards as an independent trustee. He sees being a trustee as the best way for him to have a positive impact, given his knowledge and experience.

Stephen Spellman

Job Titles:
  • Head of Internal Audit
Stephen's career has been all about protecting stakeholders through various auditing and consulting roles. His role as Trustee Director is an extension of this, looking after Scheme members and their interests.