Proeflokaal earns nomination for the PensioenPro Award

Good news: We have been nominated for the PensioenPro Award in the ‘administration/pension administration’ category. This nomination is a wonderful recognition of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, including through our ‘Proeflokaal’ initiative, which introduces young people to the work carried out within a pension fund.

Pension funds often find it difficult to reach young people. Yet rejuvenation is desperately needed, particularly in board positions and within the accountability body. That is why, on 2 April, together with the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Task Force (established on behalf of the Pension Federation and the Labour Foundation), we organised a ‘Proeflokaal’: an interactive, accessible session specifically for young Robeco employees.

That afternoon, around 25 young people were given an accessible introduction to our pension fund, our accountability body, our governance structure and the various roles available within it. Board members, members of the accountability body and our director spoke with infectious enthusiasm about their work—and about the value that young people can bring, particularly within a fund’s governing body. The approach is working. During the closing drinks reception, several participants already expressed serious interest in a role within the fund. The first applications came in that very evening.

The winners in all categories will be announced on 23 June in Amsterdam. Whatever the outcome, this nomination confirms that an open, inclusive and accessible approach makes all the difference.