In the realm of risk management and insurance, the role of actuaries has always been crucial. Actuaries analyze past data, predict future events, and quantify risks to help businesses make informed decisions. However, with the exponential growth of data in the digital age, traditional actuarial methods have faced challenges in handling the sheer volume, velocity, and variety of data available. This is where data science comes into play. Actuarial Science vs. Data Science Actuarial science combines mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance to assess risk and uncertainty. Data science enco ..read more

Are you a recent graduate with a knack for numbers and a passion for problem-solving? If so, a career in actuarial science might be the perfect fit for you. Actuaries analyze financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, and they play a crucial role in various industries, including insurance, consulting, and finance. With a high job satisfaction rating and a robust employment landscape, a career as an actuary could be a great fit. Here we explore the career path for students and new graduates:   Internships -during your undergraduate years, internships offer valuab ..read more

This week’s share your story features Carol Thomas, an actuarial student who is currently pursuing her ASA designation and working at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi.   What is your current role and what are some of your responsibilities?   I work as an Actuarial Analyst on the Large Group Pricing team at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi (BCBSMS). In addition to setting premium rates, I produce new group quotes, analyze rate re-evaluation requests, update actuarial models, and streamline business processes by redesigning spreadsheets and coding macros in VBA ..read more

2023 ACTUARIAL RECRUITING CONCLUSIONS The second and third quarter of 2023 showed challenges in the actuarial recruiting market, driven by several factors. These included concerns about the economy and a possible recession, in addition to a lack of flexibility in hiring remote worksite candidates. In 2022, the prevalence of remote opportunities and increased compensation was the driving factor of the “Great Resignation”. In 2023 the lack of flexibility for remote and hybrid work was the driving factor for many actuaries, with candidates now focused on work life balance, mainly through remote w ..read more

We know that actuarial professionals play a pivotal role in managing risk, making informed decisions, and ensuring the financial stability of organizations. However, attracting top-tier talent to actuarial roles can be a challenge. In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies to attract talented candidates to actuarial jobs and build a high-performing team. Job Descriptions: The first step in attracting talented candidates is to create compelling job descriptions that not only list the qualifications and responsibilities of the job, but also showcase the exciting challenges and opportuniti ..read more

In today’s workplace, one of the challenges for managers is leading teams comprised of individuals from different generations. From Baby Boomers to Generation Z, each generation brings unique perspectives, values, work styles, and communication preferences to the table. While generational diversity can be a tremendous asset, it can also pose challenges for managers who are working to create a cohesive work environment.   In order to manage multi-generational teams, first we need to understand the unique characteristics of each generation: Baby Boomers (1946-1964): The Baby Boomer generat ..read more

This DEI edition of Share your Story features Kristen Long (FSA, MAAA), member of the Network of Actuarial Women and Allies.   Marilyn: Tell us a little bit about yourself.   Kristen: My name is Kristen Long. My husband, Nick, and I live in Tennessee and spend a lot of our summer out on the lake. I also love playing tennis, reading different kinds of fiction, and spending time with friends and family.   From a professional perspective, I joined Unum’s Actuarial Development Program almost 8 years ago. I have since successfully graduated from the program and am now the Director of ..read more

BY: Clifton Frei – Director of Client Development for DW Simpson   “WHY SHOULD WE WORK WITH AN AGENCY?” As the leader of Client Development for DW Simpson, I get asked this or something like it a lot. You can substitute “agency” for “recruiter,” “headhunter,” or “third-party,” but the question is always the same, and none of those labels quite capture the essence of what we do or how we operate. We see ourselves as partners to both our candidates and our clients. We don’t recognize a divide with us on one side and them on the other. We value them and their time and have a genuine interest ..read more

DW Simpson is pleased to introduce Aisha Ali to our network. Aisha is an Operations Assistant at DW Simpson, and in her role she is responsible for database management and assisting recruiters with administrative and tech duties. Aisha is also working with several team members on projects pertaining to marketing and branding. A graduate of Loyola University, with a degree in marketing, Aisha enjoys capturing the beauty of Chicago through her camera lens and finding new places to eat in the city. What do you like to do for fun? One thing I like to do to wind down from my workday is coloring. I ..read more

When DW Simpson opened its doors in 1989, we made it our mission to be the premier executive recruiting firm specializing in the placement of actuaries and analytics professionals, to be recognized for the best service, integrity and forthrightness that the firm brings to each business relationship, and to be willing at all times to sacrifice short-term gain for the long-term good and prosperity of our clients, our candidates and, as a result, our organization as well. This mission statement has been the backbone of our philosophy and our success for 34 years and continues to be our goal. “We ..read more