Although at least 1 in 7 people are estimated to be neurodivergent – that is, they have an alternative thinking style - neurodiversity has only recently become a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) focus within financial services. It is a paradox that only 22% of autistic adults in the UK are in any kind of employment, when many have the skills that are sought in an actuary of the future. This presents an opportunity for employers to meet their demand for high-quality talent through a more inclusive approach to neurodivergent individuals, and is a demonstration of how focussing on the ‘S’ in ESG can significantly improve an organisation’s effectiveness.
This interactive session will explore this topic in the context of the Actuarial Profession.
Speaker:
Alicja Nocon FIA CERA
Alicja has worked as a Life and Risk Actuary in various roles across consulting, insurance and reinsurance for a decade. Following an autism spectrum condition (ASC) diagnosis in 2020, she decided to take a break from permanent actuarial work and focus on changing the perceptions surrounding autism and other neurodivergent thinking styles in the workplace. Alicja created her own business, Expand the Circle, and engages with both organisations and neurodivergent individuals through bespoke training, coaching and consulting.
Alicja is keen to use her voice, and that of the neurodivergent community, to bring about positive change in the wider system. She is a regular public speaker, most recently at DiveIn Festival and the Caribbean Actuarial Association’s Conference in 2021.
Chair:
Steve Wilson
Steve has over 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry and has held senior positions in actuarial, risk and general management. Steve spent the first half of his career in the UK before moving to Switzerland where he held a number of global roles for the Zurich Group. Having worked internationally for 16 years, Steve is now re-based in the UK and serves as a non-executive director on the A.M. Best UK and EU Boards.