Roger Urwin. Career model

Roger Urwin FFA/FIA: 1983 Company: Watson Wyatt LLP Role: Global Head, Investment Consulting Other actuaries: Actuaries predominate, but in investment it's now a 50/50 business

First job: Trainee actuary at Bacon & Woodrow.

Key steps between first job and current one

More responsibility each time plus one lateral move into investment management at Gartmore.

Current work

There is an extraordinary variety - a mix of professional, client facing and management. The management challenge is pretty daunting - bringing together a consulting force of over 300 people, who work in 25 countries. These days management issues cover the spectrum of recruitment, retention, globalisation, brand management and marketing strategy. But the professional issues in our industry are where I've seen the biggest developments. Investment consulting has become a pivotal force in the investment business, sparking almost every new idea. My work is to keep Watson Wyatt LLP at the forefront of the investment industry.

Opportunities for others

There is one major limitation in expanding our business: we cannot find enough people who fit our profile. The opportunities for bright personable, team players who like the intellectual challenge of the investment business are terrific. I should love to see many more actuarial students and actuaries join us.

Hurdles to surmount

The major hurdle is surviving the work/life balance 'crunch'. As people get sucked into work it seems to take over too much - I think everyone in the busy consulting industry should try to maintain a balance, however much the work tries to encroach.

Original reason for becoming an actuary

The security of professional qualifications appealed to me and gave me the opportunity to use my mathematical competencies in finance and problem solving.

Subsequent thoughts

I'm very pleased with my choice - it was a correct diagnosis.

Career history

Bacon & Woodrow:

• 1977-1983

Mercer:

• 1983-1987

Gartmore:

• 1987-1989

Watson Wyatt:

• 1989 to date

Other comments

I have worked for four high quality firms, each packed with learning opportunities.