mallowstreet Defined Contribution Indaba 2026

Important

Delegates are expected to attend the full event. We do understand that this is a time commitment in diaries. Please do let us know if you need to step away for a call/meeting and we shall adjust your personal agenda.

This full-day Defined Contribution (DC) Indaba will delve into the evolving landscape of defined contribution pension schemes and their pivotal role in shaping secure retirement outcomes for millions.


Bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and financial experts, the event will explore the latest developments, challenges, and innovations influencing DC pensions. Key discussion areas include the impact of regulatory reforms, effective strategies to boost member engagement, and the rising significance of sustainable investment options within DC plans.


Attendees will gain valuable insights through keynote presentations and expert panel discussions focused on optimising contribution strategies, enhancing retirement readiness, and managing the risks of market volatility.


By the close of the Indaba, participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of defined contribution schemes and implement practical strategies to achieve better outcomes for both plan sponsors and members.

This event is FREE to attend for investment decision makers and their advisers and is accredited for CPD points by the Pensions Management Institute (PMI).

 

*An Indaba (pronounced in-dar-bah) is an important conference held by the izinDuna (principal people) of the Zulu or Xhosa people. The term comes from a Zulu language word meaning "business" or "matter".


At mallowstreet we adhere to a principles-based approach to ensure a meaningful and respectful experience for all attendees. We believe that upholding these principles will contribute to a thriving and inclusive professional environment. Please review our Code of Conduct here: Code of Conduct

Speakers

Program

  1. Registration & Breakfast

  2. Welcome Address

    Dawid provides an overview of the conference, speakers, and key themes for the Indaba.

    Speaker

    Dawid Konotey-Ahulu CBE DL, Co-founder, mallowstreet

  3. Members Don’t Want Engagement …

    Members Don’t Want Engagement … They Want Confidence. Pension professionals often measure engagement, but members judge success differently. This session explores whether the industry has become too focused on communicating pensions and not focused enough on creating trust, confidence and better retirement outcomes. Along the way, we'll challenge assumptions about choice, ownership and what good member experience really means. 

    Speaker

    Azka Ali, Client Director & Professional Trustee, Vidett

  4. Session Transition

  5. Investment Masterclass I

    Delegates split into five Investment Masterclass sessions over the course of the Indaba.

  6. Tea, Coffee, and Networking

  7. Investment Masterclass II

    Delegates split into five Investment Masterclass sessions over the course of the Indaba.

  8. Session Transition

  9. Keynote Presentation

    Speaker

    Gareth Doyle, Principal, Howden

  10. Session Transition

  11. Investment Masterclass III

    Delegates split into five Investment Masterclass sessions over the course of the Indaba.

  12. Lunch and Networking

  13. Keynote Presentation

    Speaker

    Naomi Clark, Head of Investment Product Management, Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

  14. Session Transition

  15. Investment Masterclass IV

    Delegates split into five Investment Masterclass sessions over the course of the Indaba.

  16. Tea, Coffee & Networking

  17. Investment Masterclass V

    Delegates split into five Investment Masterclass sessions over the course of the Indaba.

  18. Session Transition


  19. Playing to Your Strengths: What High-Performing Teams Can Teach DC Leaders

    High-performing teams are rarely built by accident. Sustained success comes from understanding individual strengths, building trust and creating an environment where people can perform at their best.


    Drawing on his experience of leading pensions, Muntazir explores what DC leaders can learn from high-performing teams, including the importance of listening well, valuing different perspectives, adapting to change and building resilience.


    The session will look at how leaders can bring together different strengths and experiences to build effective teams, make better decisions and navigate the challenges they face. It will also challenge the idea that leaders need to have all the answers, highlighting instead the importance of knowing when to listen, when to challenge and when to give others the space to do what they do best.


    Expect practical reflections on leadership, communication, and decision-making in increasingly complex environments.

    Speaker

    Muntazir Hadadi, Head of Pensions, First Bus; First Bus Retirement Savings Plan

  20. Closing Remarks

    Speaker

    Dawid Konotey-Ahulu CBE DL, Co-founder, mallowstreet

  21. Drinks and Networking

  22. End