Rising star - LGPS

Ellen Edwards - North East Scotland Pension Fund

Ellen has worked within the NESPF for 10 years, during her time at the NESPF she has progressed from an administrative assistant to a Senior Pension Officer within the Employer Relationship Team. In the last couple of years, Ellen has shifted her focus to include the development and streamlining of administration processes as part of her remit. Through Agile working Ellen has taken a lead role in several projects to put into place methods where huge time-saving benefits can already be seen across operational teams.

Emma Hebblethwaite - LPPA

Emma deserves this award for her exceptional contribution to LPPA and the wider LGPS community. She has streamlined complex processes and improved engagement with members, employers and clients. Her leadership skills and dedication to continuous improvement have not only driven her team's success, but also earned her recognition amongst her colleagues and clients alike. Emma's proactive approach to learning and development both in her own career and with her teams, shows her commitment to drive and excellence. We feel this makes her a standout candidate for this award, exemplifying the qualities of a true rising star in the pensions industry.

Chris van der Merwe - Brunel Pension Partnership

Chris is knowledgeable, passionate and works hard for Brunel and our clients. Chris has worked with our listed markets team to full integrate ESG risk and climate metrics into our listed market risk reporting; with the private markets team on due diligence as well as client reporting sustainable investments; and with Brunel’s data team to lead Brunel’s TCFD climate and carbon metrics reporting including bespoke client reporting. Externally, Chris contributes to industry best practice covering improving data quality, DEI, emerging markets as well as climate and especially for LGPS and is shortly to become Chair the Responsible Investment Cross-Pool Group.

Ruby Vuong - Westminster City Council

Ruby’s exceptional performance, leadership, and dedication make her a deserving candidate for the Rising Star Award. Her strategic oversight during the onboarding of the Bexley Pension Fund, innovative approach to asset allocation, operational excellence, and influential presence in the LGPS community are testament to her capabilities at this early juncture in her career. Ruby’s technical proficiency, resilience, and commitment to continuous improvement have significantly benefited the Tri-Borough Team and set a benchmark for excellence in the industry. We wholeheartedly support Ruby’s nomination and believe she exemplifies the highest standards of professional achievement and industry leadership.

Jack Yonge - LGPS Central

Jack Yonge, a Responsible Investment (RI) Analyst at LGPS Central, exemplifies the qualities of a Rising Star in the investment industry. With a strong academic background from the University of Aberdeen and the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Jack joined LGPS Central in 2022. Promoted to RI Analyst in 2024, he spearheaded the Sustainable Investment Monitoring Service and showcased exceptional innovation. Jack’s dedication to ESG integration and passion for sustainable investment has positively impacted Partner Funds, making him an outstanding candidate for this award.

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