Funda van Riel-Bor board member at BPL Pensioen: ‘Fresh energy and an innovative outlook’
This interview was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.
Funda van Riel-Bor was recently appointed as a board member of BPL Pensioen. Financial Investigator interviewed her about this new step in her career.
Congratulations on your new step. How do you like your new job?
'I really like the job. It is inspiring to now be able to officially use the experience I have gained for BPL Pensioen. The pension world is on the verge of one of the biggest transitions ever, and it gives me a lot of energy to play an active role in this as a young director.'
You worked at PGGM Investments and now, in addition to your board role, you work at APG Asset Management. What knowledge have you gained in these positions?
'At PGGM, I worked as a Change Consultant. In that role, it was essential to have a helicopter view and to understand how changes impact the entire trading process and the organisation. This gave me valuable insights into the back end of the pension chain. At APG, as Treasury & Trading Development Manager, I work at the front end of the chain, with a focus on trading processes. These roles, combined with my board position, give me a comprehensive picture of the challenges in the pension world.'
When did you decide to pursue a board role in a pension fund?
'At PGGM, a colleague told me about the Pension Lab programme, which gets young people excited about pension fund management. I realised that I wanted to have more of an impact and that the key to that lay at the board table, where crucial decisions are made.'
What makes you, as a young pension fund manager, an asset to the sector?
'My age, personality and experience form a unique combination. I bring fresh energy and an innovative perspective, while my accumulated knowledge allows me to tackle complex issues. In addition, I strive to represent the interests of all participants: young and old, from diverse backgrounds and sectors.'
How do you want to contribute to the development of a future-proof pension system?
'I want to contribute to a system in which financial stability, sustainability and participant confidence are central. At BPL Pensioen, we are committed to a good pension in a liveable world by investing in sustainable projects. The theme of ‘sustainability’ is also a current theme for the companies affiliated with us. They recognise the interests of the climate, water and biodiversity in our investment priorities. It is an honour to be part of a fund that not only offers financial security, but also has a positive impact on the world around us.'
How do you combine your current position at APG Asset Management and your role as a board member at BPL Pensioen with your personal ambitions to grow further in the financial sector?
'My current roles complement each other perfectly. As a board member, I have the opportunity to contribute to the pension system at a strategic level, while at APG I develop my operational and technical skills. This combination not only helps me to strengthen myself, but also to create value for participants and the sector as a whole.'
What advice would you give to young people who want to become pension fund directors?
'I would advise them to participate in the Pensioenlab programme. This offers an excellent foundation, with education, networking and practical experience. In the meantime, don't sit around doing nothing, but look for internships to gain more experience. Build on your skills, be proactive and seize opportunities when they arise. And if you have any questions, feel free to send me a message via LinkedIn.'