So what is an actuary?

Actuaries are some of the brightest people in business today. They're

who consider past and present information to develop and communicate a picture of the future.

Simply put, they use their mathematical expertise and statistical knowledge to help financial institutions and governments evaluate the long-term financial implications of their decisions.

Traditionally, actuaries have worked in the insurance and pensions industries, but increasingly they are playing a valuable role in areas such as banking, business management, healthcare and risk assessment.

6 good reasons to become an actuary

1. Diverse and varied work
Actuarial skills are in global demand across many financial sectors - from insurance, pensions and benefits, investment and asset management, to banking and healthcare.

2. Influential role
With specialist training and unique skills, actuaries are usually behind many high level strategic decisions made by financial services companies and governments.

3. Professionalism
Actuaries uphold the highest professional standards. The job demands that actuaries combine good business sense with safeguarding the public's future financial interests.

4. Intellectual satisfaction
Actuaries are problem solvers. They analyse and interpret data, assess risks and estimate outcomes, and communicate all this to people from a wide range of backgrounds.

5. A good work-life balance
With variety comes flexibility, allowing you to balance professional commitments with personal interests.

6. Well paid
Salaries and benefits packages are excellent - even for those starting out in their career. In fact, it's one of the highest paid professions.

A wide range of resources

Our network of specialist Careers Advisers can help you with guidance on careers or any questions that you might have. We have strong links with universities across the UK, and can provide hard copies of all brochures.

Tell us what you need

To find out more contact the Careers Team at careers@actuaries.org.uk

Actuaries in a nutshell