LONDON, UK – The European Commission has appointed Hewitt Associates, a global human resources consulting and outsourcing company, to carry out a comprehensive feasibility study and to advise on the establishment of a pan-European pension fund for researchers. Hewitt's appointment came as a result of a public call for tender and followed a rigorous selection process.

The main objective of the project is to analyse the legal, technical and financial terms and requirements that should be considered when setting up viable pan-European arrangements for an occupational pension that takes into account EU researchers' and employers' needs. The results of the project will also contribute to raise the awareness of different stakeholders (including universities, public and private institutes of research, and companies with important R&D departments) about practical solutions that make it easier and more cost effective to provide occupational pension benefits which also complement state pension rights.

The project is part of the European Union R&D set of policy priorities promoted by Commissioner Janez Potocnik and supported by the EU Council to build a "European Research Area" that is more open, competitive and attractive to researchers. 

Leonardo Sforza, head of Research Europe and EU Relations at Hewitt Associates said:

"We are honoured that our proposal, backed by our multi-disciplinary project team of experts from 15 nationalities, has been selected by the European Commission. We are delighted to contribute on the ground with our experience, fresh analysis and innovative ideas to such an ambitious and truly pan-European pension project that will benefit researchers and beyond, while reducing administrative burdens to employers."

Ian Hinton, who leads Hewitt's European international benefits team said:

"Our engagement in pioneering practical solutions that work in the area of pensions – and in the best interest of both employers and employees – reaches new heights with this project. I am pleased that our thought leadership, practical experience, rigorousness and independence of analysis have been recognised once more through this prestigious assignment."

About Hewitt Associates 
Hewitt Associates (NYSE: HEW) provides leading organisations around the world with expert human resources consulting and outsourcing solutions to help them anticipate and solve their most complex benefits, talent, and related financial challenges. Hewitt consults with companies to design and implement a wide range of human resources, retirement, investment management, health management, compensation, and talent management strategies. As a leading outsourcing provider, Hewitt administers health care, retirement, payroll, and other HR programmes to millions of employees, their families, and pensioners. With a history of exceptional client service since 1940, Hewitt has offices in 33 countries and employs approximately 23,000 associates who are helping make the world a better place to work. For more information, please visit www.hewitt.com.

Other Contacts
Anna Mitchell at Capital MS&L on 020 7307 5346 oranna.mitchell@capitalmsl.com
Supriya Mathur, Capital MS&L, on 020 7307 5347 orsupriya.mathur@capitalmsl.com