I am a specialist pensions lawyer and advise employers and trustees on all aspects of pensions law, including scheme mergers and closures, funding arrangements and drafting and updating scheme documents.

I also have experience in a broad range of defined contribution issues, including advising on bulk transfers to DC master trusts, DC investment and security of scheme assets, preparing the chair’s annual governance statement and managing scheme wind-ups. I advise two DC master trust clients and my recent advice includes the designation of default funds, the structure and terms of bulk transfers-in, and ongoing compliance with law and guidance specifically applying to DC master trusts.

I have extensive expertise in advising trustees on data protection issues including data sharing arrangements, data subject complaints and time-critical data breaches. I also have an interest in cyber-security and have spoken at industry events on data issues affecting trustees.

I also regularly advise employers and trustees on commercial contracts with third-party providers, including recently advising a large employer on a new SIPP provider contract, and advising trustees on the outsourcing of pensions administration services.

Recent experience

• advising an employer on the sectionalisation of its DB scheme
• working on risk-transfer projects including preparing and reviewing benefit specifications and buy-in contracts
• advising widely on DB to DC member pension transfer requests
• advising a DC master trust trustee on transfers-in from other schemes
• advising on the preparatory stages of GMP equalisation and conversion, with a particular interest in GMP data issues
• advising a trustee on a potential age discrimination claim linked to the scheme’s benefit structure
• reviewing unregistered group life documentation.

Qualified: 2013, England and Wales

Joined Sackers: 2013

Became partner: 2023

Testimonials

“Oliver Topping is a pleasure to deal with. He provides clear and practical advice on pensions and related matters.” Chambers UK

“Oliver Topping was excellent. He has an eye for detail, but is also able to keep the big picture in mind and find pragmatic solutions.” Chambers UK

“He is first class. Oliver is extremely helpful, organised and thorough. His level of knowledge and quality of advice are excellent.” Chambers UK