XPS Group Expands Risk Settlement Team with Five New Appointments

XPS Group Expands Risk Settlement Team with Five New Appointments

04 Dec 2025

XPS Group has expanded its Risk Settlement team with five new appointments, reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional post-transaction services for pension schemes transitioning from buy-in to buyout.

Steve Ellul joins as Senior Project Lead, bringing extensive experience from Barnett Waddingham and Broadstone. He is joined by Consultants Umar Nazir, previously with Isio, and Ben Knight, formerly at Capita. Tajahe Downie joins as a Senior Associate from Hymans Robertson, alongside Alexa Sotiris, who steps into the role from within XPS.

The appointments follow a rise in XPS-led buy-in transactions during 2025 and reflects the firm’s investment in scaling delivery capacity to meet growing client demand. The appointments signal a broader commitment to ensuring trustees receive seamless, expert support throughout the endgame journey.

Stephen Purves, Head of Risk Settlement at XPS Group, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Steve, Umar, Ben, Tajahe, and Alexa to the team. Their invaluable expertise strengthens our post-transaction capabilities at a time of exceptional demand for our services. 2025 has already seen a record number of XPS-led transactions and this additional capacity will be essential in supporting our clients through the critical stages of buy-in and beyond.”

Mel Stanford, Head of Post-Transactions Services at XPS Group, said:

“Our five new team members have already made a noticeable impact. The post-transaction phase remains a key priority for trustees preparing for buyout, and our continued investment in this area, alongside close collaboration with insurers and stakeholders, is helping us deliver the support and outcomes our clients expect.”

Steve Ellul, new Senior Project Lead for Post-Transactions Services at XPS Group said:

“With more schemes now considering a path to endgame, I am excited to be joining an ever-growing team within XPS, which prides itself on excellent delivery for clients.