How NS Pension is using technology to support members and connect with employers

At NS Pension, technology is playing an increasingly important role in how plan members access their pension information, prepare for retirement, and connect with the organization.

NS Pension administers pension benefits and manages investment assets on behalf of some of Nova Scotia's largest pension plans, including the Public Service Superannuation Plan (PSSP). As a defined benefit pension plan, the PSSP provides members with predictable lifetime retirement income based on a formula. A member's relationship with NS Pension can begin early in their career and continue through decades of retirement.

The organization supports more than 83,200 members, including retirees and beneficiaries, each with different service needs and preferences. While some prefer reviewing information online, others value the opportunity to speak directly with someone to better understand their pension benefit. NS Pension recognizes the importance of providing different ways for members to access information and support.

“Technology should help make pension information more accessible while maintaining the personal service our members value,” says Brendon LeLievre, Senior Manager, Business Development at NS Pension.

To support these evolving needs, NS Pension continues to invest in technology aimed at improving access to pension information, modernizing internal systems and records management, and strengthening information security.

“Much of the work we do happens behind the scenes,” says LeLievre. “Whether a member is receiving their pension payment, reviewing their annual statement or contacting us with a question, there are people, processes and systems working together to support that interaction.”

Helping members explore their pension plan

Through My Retirement Plan, NS Pension’s secure online member site, active members can access their personalized pension information and retirement planning resources, including their annual member statements and a pension projection tool. The website also allows members to explore how different retirement dates could affect their pension income, helping them better understand their retirement options at a time that is convenient for them.

“Retirement planning often starts with questions about when to retire and what your pension might look like,” says LeLievre. “Having access to personalized pension information allows members to explore their options at their own pace and better understand how their pension fits into their overall retirement plans.”While online resources can help members explore their retirement options, personal service remains an important part of the support NS Pension provides. Members may still need assistance understanding their pension benefits, particularly as they approach retirement or experience a significant life event.

The systems behind the service

My Retirement Plan is one example of how NS Pension uses technology to support members. Behind the scenes, the organization continues to invest in the systems and infrastructure that support its operations.

These efforts include modernizing pension administration systems, improving electronic records management, strengthening information security and exploring ways to make information more accessible to plan members.

These investments support a range of functions across NS Pension, including pension administration, investment management and corporate operations, with a focus on improving efficiency and supporting informed decision-making.

“By continuing to improve our internal systems and reducing manual processes, we can create opportunities for our teams to work more efficiently and focus on the services that matter to our members and employers,” says LeLievre.

Connecting with Nova Scotia employers

Technology also plays a role in NS Pension's efforts to expand participation in the PSSP.

As Senior Manager, Business Development, LeLievre focuses on raising awareness of the PSSP and attracting new participating employers across Nova Scotia.

Historically associated with government employees, the PSSP is now open to eligible employers across the public, non-profit, municipal and private sectors. NS Pension continues to enhance its digital communications to help prospective employers learn about the Plan and the benefits of participation.

Joining Digital Nova Scotia provides an opportunity to connect with employers in the province's technology sector and raise awareness of how defined benefit pensions can support employee recruitment and retention.

Research suggests pensions can play an important role in these conversations. In a 2025 survey by Angus Reid Group for pension provider HOOPP, 88 per cent of employers offering a defined benefit pension said it had helped them recruit and retain talent.

“Technology companies are competing for skilled people, and attracting talent is only part of the challenge,” says LeLievre. “Retaining employees and giving them reasons to build a career with an organization is just as important.”

Beyond connecting with prospective employers, NS Pension sees its membership in Digital Nova Scotia as an opportunity to exchange knowledge and learn from the province's technology community.

“There’s a lot we can learn from the people and organizations in that network, and we also hope to bring something useful to the conversation by sharing what we’ve learned about pensions, long-term planning and supporting workforce stability,” says LeLievre.