Norfolk appoints independent person
Author: LAPF Investments | Published: September 15, 2026
Norfolk Pension Fund has announced the appointment of legal expert Clifford Sims as its new independent person.
It comes part of the fund’s continued commitment to strong and transparent governance, effective oversight and continuous improvement for the benefit of members and employers.
In his new independent person role. Sims will provide independent insight, scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the pension committee at Norfolk across all aspects of investment, governance and pension administration.
Sims brings with him a more than 30-year career in law and was a partner at global law firm Squire Patton Boggs, where he was head of pensions practice for six years. He retired in 2024 but was recognised as a leading pensions lawyer and an expert in investment and financial services in relation to workplace pensions.
Over his career he advised many local authorities, private sector trustees, pension product providers, investment banks and sponsoring employers on pensions and investment issues. He also has experience instructing and training pension boards and committees on their fiduciary investment duties.
Reflecting on the appointment, Norfolk Pension Fund’s director Glenn Cossey said: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Clifford as our Independent Person.
“In this new role, Clifford will support the Fund’s Pension Committee and senior officers across areas including governance, administration and investment, helping to ensure that decisions are subject to appropriate independent consideration.”
Sims added: “I am delighted to take on the role of Independent Person at Norfolk Pension Fund at such an important time for the LGPS. The Fit for the Future reforms represent a significant opportunity to strengthen governance and ensure funds are well placed to deliver for members and employers over the long term.
“I look forward to working with the Pension Committee and officers to support the Fund in maintaining robust, transparent decision-making and high standards of governance as the LGPS continues to evolve.”
