The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has appointed the head of Tesco's pension scheme to become its chairman.

Ruston Smith will begin his two-year term as NAPF chairman after its annual general meeting in October when Mark Hyde Harrison's two-year tenure ends.

Smith is Tesco's group pensions and insurable risk director, and is also currently the chairman of the NAPF's retirement policy council.

He has held a non-executive role at the NAPF since 2007.

"The NAPF is at the heart of the national debate on the future of retirement saving, and I am delighted to be taking on the role of chairman," said Smith.

He added: "The pensions industry has an important and exciting role to play, and it can make a real different to individual lives and the wider economy.

"Over the next few years, auto-enrolment will bring millions of people into pensions, and the NAPF will be working hard to ensure the reforms are a success. Good governance and sensible regulation, which protect savers and focus on maximising retirement income, are vital to build confidence in pension saving."

Smith thanked Hyde Harrison for his "hard work" during "a very busy time for pensions".

Hyde Harrison said: "I congratulate Ruston on his appointment. He brings a wealth of knowledge and his experience will be of considerable value. I am confident he will add to the ongoing success of the NAPF and that he will ensure the views of our members continue to be heard in Whitehall, Westminster and Brussels."

First published 11.06.2013

monique_simpson@wilmington.co.uk