Pay, Pensions and Total Reward Approach for Academic Colleagues

At Northumbria, we are committed to offering a fair, transparent and competitive reward package for our colleagues.

Our Total Reward Approach (TRA)

For academic colleagues, we use a Total Reward Approach for pay and pensions.

This approach recognises that the University's investment in your reward package includes both your salary and the pension contributions made by the University on your behalf.

Each academic grade point has a Total Reward Envelope (TRE). This is determined on the base salary and cost of USS pension scheme.

The value of the Total Reward Envelope remains the same regardless of which pension scheme you choose. However, the salary you receive will differ based on the employer pension contributions of the pension scheme you choose.  

Academic colleagues can choose between:

• Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS)
• Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

Why Do We Use a Total Reward Approach?

Our Total Reward Approach gives academic colleagues flexibility and choice while ensuring that the University's overall investment in reward remains consistent and equitable.

This means colleagues can select the pension arrangement that best aligns with their personal circumstances, career aspirations and retirement planning objectives.

Which Pension Scheme Is Right for Me?

Both TPS and USS are highly quality pension schemes, but they are designed differently and may suit different individuals.

The most appropriate choice will depend on factors such as:

• Your career stage
• Your retirement goals
• Your personal financial circumstances
• Previous pension membership
• The value you place on pension benefits compared with take-home pay

The right choice is the one that best meets your individual needs and priorities.

Pay Progression and Career Development

Alongside the Total Reward Approach, colleagues also have access to:

• Progress through incremental spine points, where applicable
• An annual Academic Development Review process where colleagues con be considered for progression to the next Academic profile and grade
• Information for Successful Candidates

For candidates offered an academic role at Northumbria, we will share with you full details of the pay and pension arrangements applicable to your role and support you in making an informed choice about the option that best suits your circumstances.

If you have any questions about any of the information shared, please contact us.