Non-traditional actuarial roll

[healthysheep]

Hello,

I work for a small company that provides fruad solutions to financial instions (big companies). My manager is open to the idea of supporting me through the actuarial exams. I just wanted to get some thoughts on whether the credentials would be applicable/beneficial. I passed the first couple of exams while working at a previous job. I find the actuarial educational path interesting and would like to get some thoughts. It definitely would be insurance. We do a lot of data mining and predictive modeling.

Thanks for your help.

[D.W. Simpson Webmaster]

Originally Posted by healthysheep

I just wanted to get some thoughts on whether the credentials would be applicable/beneficial.

From your prior posts, I thought pursuing the actuarial credentials (in a more traditional actuarial role) was something you were considering because they provided better job security, more stability and a clearer career path. You mentioned that several times you were one foot out the door and worried about keeping your job.

If, instead, you'd like to take exams and remain with your employer, I think that's a great idea, too, since you enjoy the work. But all of the issues you mentioned appear to remain, so this is less a question of whether the credentials will be applicable/beneficial. It's more a question of whether you've come to accept what you have and what you don't have at your present employer.

[healthysheep]

Well, a few things...

I do like what the actuarial exams have to offer. Admitedly, the last time I studied for one, it made me want to jump ship and get into a more traditional roll...to learn from other actuaries.

I recently spoke with an FSA that said my current position may not be a bad place to be. And said that it may not be totally out in left field. As I work towards the credentials, I would be developing superb problem solving skills.

Maybe I am off base, but when I look at an MBA program, I think, "not technical enough." When I look at a stats master's, I think, "not business enough." I'm I correct in believing that the actuarial exam provide a solid (in depth) mix?

[D.W. Simpson Webmaster]

Originally Posted by healthysheep

I recently spoke with an FSA that said my current position may not be a bad place to be.

I agree.

As I work towards the credentials, I would be developing superb problem solving skills.

Agree.

I'm I correct in believing that the actuarial exam provide a solid (in depth) mix?

Sure. It is a special person, though, that can consistently pass the exams when nobody around them is sitting for them, as they get progressively harder.