TPR’s Big Survey Loops in a “Typical Trustee”
TPR just dropped the findings from its first trustee diversity & inclusion survey. With 2,197 trustees filling it out, it’s the largest-ever survey the regulator has ever launched. The headline? Your average trustee is a white bloke over 45. Yep, that’s how it sounds.
Why This Matters (and Why It’s Worth a Gaze)
- 78% of trustees reckon a diverse board is a must—think gender, age, ethnicity.
- 84% say diversity leads to better decisions.
- 83% feel it upholds solid governance.
- 85% think it improves outcomes for members.
So, it’s on the board’s radar, but ~half of schemes haven’t even taken a step towards change. That’s what TPR wants to help fix.
Skills & Experience – The Hidden Diversity
When you’re not bowling over your visible traits, there’s still plenty of “diversity” out there:
- 82% say their board has a spread of skills.
- 74% show variation in life experience.
- 73% bring different professional backgrounds.
- 73% offer Cognitive diversity.
- 61% cover a range of education profiles.
Because a board that’s diverse in these ways tends to make sharper, more balanced calls.
A Word From the Director
Louise Davey, TPR’s Interim Director of Regulatory Policy, Analysis and Advice, explains the “why”:
“Growing evidence shows diverse and inclusive boards make more effective decisions. That’s key to good governance and better saver outcomes.”
She adds:
“While the ‘typical’ trustee might not surprise you, this data gives us a baseline for progress.”
“The majority see the value of inclusivity, but fewer than half act on it.”
“Diversify not only on the surface—think skills, life experience, and cognitive diversity.”
“If you’re looking to level up your scheme’s board, tap into our latest guidance for practical ways to boost diversity and inclusion.”
Quick Takeaway
Understanding who sits on the board is the first step. Out with the old one‑size‑fits‑all mindset. TPR’s data shows we’re all on the same page—diversity matters—but the conversation about how to embed it is just starting.
Stay tuned for the full guidance and start building a board that truly reflects the people you’re meant to serve.
