UK - The £200m (€241m) University of Edinburgh Staff Benefits Scheme has appointed Hymans Roberston as investment adviser.

The consultant will provide a range of investment advisory services to the trustees, including strategic advice and manager selection.

David Boyd, partner at Hymans Robertson, said: "We have already identified a number of issues that are priorities for the trustees in the short term, and we will work hard to improve efficiencies across the scheme.

"We will also be working closely with the trustees to set a clear investment strategy for the longer term."

Jon Gorringe, finance director at the University of Edinburgh, said it had been important for scheme officials to appoint a company that could develop a workable long-term plan while at the same time appreciating the short-term challenges.

"Hymans Robertson took time to really understand our needs and were clear on what areas they felt we needed to tackle as a priority," he said.

Meanwhile, Barnett Waddingham, has been appointed as actuary, administrator and consultant to the Staff Superannuation Fund of Palmer and Harvey, the largest delivered wholesaler in the UK.

Jim Glover, chairman of the trustee board, said scheme officials had looked at a number of actuarial providers and that Barnett Waddingham provided value for money.

He said: "Its proactive approach, particularly in relation to working with the trustees, gives us confidence in its abilities to understand our needs and support our requirements."