So you’re considering a career as an actuarial consultant…

If you have a mathematical mind and enjoy communicating with others then working as an actuarial consultant could be the perfect role for you.
I won’t pretend that training to be an actuary is easy; the exams are tough and you need a wide skill set to be able to do your job well. However, if you like a challenge and are willing to work hard, then a career as an actuarial consultant is extremely rewarding and can be a lot of fun!

A day in the life of an actuarial consultant

What an actuarial consultant does day to day is probably a mystery to most people, and to be honest even after a year’s experience I find it difficult to explain what it is I do! This is mainly due to the varied nature of the work we undertake – every client is unique and has different needs. It is therefore important that we are adaptable and able to think outside the box.
Since joining Hymans Robertson last September I have done individual member calculations, prepared accounting disclosures, drafted reports, emailed and spoken to clients on the phone, and much, much more.

The most enjoyable aspects

Despite what some people may say, being an actuary is never boring! I’m constantly learning, improving and being challenged, and for me this is the most enjoyable aspect of what I do. I am particularly lucky at Hymans Robertson in that everyone in the firm is supportive, helpful and friendly. People will always make the time to explain things and answer any silly questions I may have. There is an excellent team atmosphere around the office and I’d be lying if I said the office socials aren’t one of my favourite aspects too!

The least enjoyable aspects

Training to be an actuary means at least another three years of study and exams! Fitting studying around your work commitments and also making sure you don’t miss out on a social life can be a struggle at times and requires you to be disciplined and organised. Thankfully, Hymans Robertson provide an excellent study support package which includes one day off a week to study, all the relevant materials, regular tutorials, and a study mentor who will help guide you through the process. It is reassuring to know you are in the same position as all the other trainees and everyone is able to support each other.

Overall impression

In my short time at Hymans Robertson I have learnt so much and have enjoyed the opportunity to apply my technical knowledge to real-life problems faced by clients. I am extremely happy that I decided to pursue a career as an actuarial consultant and I’m looking forward to continuing along the road to qualification…