Industry shares sadness, love and fond memories following the news of Smart’s death
Smart joined Heywood in 2021 as chief strategy officer, and quickly demonstrated “unwavering dedication, strategic brilliance, and compassionate leadership”, in the words of one of his colleagues, which saw him promoted into the CEO role the following year.
Sian Jones, interim CEO, said: “Under Fraser’s leadership, Heywood achieved remarkable milestones and forged new paths in the pension sector.
“Beyond his professional achievements, Fraser’s warmth, humility, dry humour, and genuine concern for his colleagues left an indelible mark on the Heywood family.
“He was not only a leader but also a mentor and a friend. Fraser’s ability to connect with people on a personal level fostered a collaborative and supportive work environment, inspiring teams to perform at their best.”
“As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the positive impact he had on Heywood and the entire pensions community. His legacy is woven into the fabric of our company culture, where his belief in pushing boundaries and embracing challenges in the pension industry will continue to guide us.
“Fraser’s legacy challenges us to strive for excellence, to be innovative, and to uphold the values he held dear. Our thoughts and love go out to his family during this difficult time.”
Chris Humphrey, chairman of Heywood, said: “Fraser has been a remarkable leader for Heywood and will be sorely missed.”
Brian Gielty, Pensions Expert’s publisher, said: “Fraser was a great friend to us and will be a great loss not to just everyone who knew him, but the industry as a whole.
“I remember him chairing our DG Publishing Private and Pensions Summit, and he was simply wonderful in the role.
“He was a brilliant and incisive chair, yet his warmth was apparent, making him one of the most popular people to have led one of our events.”
Friends and colleagues shared memories and messages on Linkedin. With people commenting about Fraser’s dry wit and (sometimes wicked) sense of humour, him being incredibly generous and kind, his drive and conviction, and just being an “all round true gentlemen.”
