Starting your actuarial career is an exciting time filled with learning, exams, and the gradual building of technical expertise. But alongside mastering models, statistics, and financial theory, developing leadership skills early on is a game-changer that can accelerate your career and set you apart well before you earn your Society of Actuaries (SOA) Fellowship. Cultivating leadership abilities as an early-career actuary not only prepares you for management roles later but also enhances your effectiveness in team projects and client interactions right now.
One of the first things to understand is that leadership isn’t just about managing people or holding a title. It’s about influence, communication, initiative, and problem-solving—skills you can start honing from day one. For example, volunteering to lead a small project within your team or taking ownership of a recurring task can demonstrate responsibility and build confidence. Even simple acts like organizing meeting notes and summarizing key points for your team can position you as a dependable contributor who helps keep everyone aligned, especially if you lean toward introversion.
Another practical way to develop leadership is by embracing opportunities to stretch beyond your comfort zone. Early in your career, you might feel pressure to always be technically perfect, but leadership growth often comes from taking calculated risks and learning from mistakes. For instance, if you notice an inefficiency in your team’s workflow or a process that could be streamlined, bring it up with your manager along with a thoughtful suggestion. This proactive approach shows initiative and a broader business mindset, which are essential leadership traits. As one actuarial development program advises, allow yourself to “fail fast” and learn quickly to build resilience and adaptability, key qualities for leaders[1].
Building strong relationships at work is equally important. Leadership thrives on trust and collaboration, so invest time in getting to know your colleagues and mentors. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback or help when facing challenges; this openness fosters mutual respect and can lead to valuable mentorship opportunities. For example, during one-on-one meetings with your manager, discuss not only your technical progress but also how to navigate difficult conversations or manage expectations on projects. These discussions provide insights into leadership challenges and build your credibility within the team[3].
Professional organizations and volunteer opportunities can also play a big role in sharpening your leadership skills. Joining actuarial societies or committees gives you a chance to contribute beyond your immediate job and develop communication, networking, and project management skills. Early-career actuaries who engage actively with groups like the Academy of Actuaries often find themselves on accelerated paths to leadership roles because they expand their influence and gain broader perspectives[5]. For instance, volunteering to organize an event or lead a working group can expose you to different leadership styles and challenges, helping you build confidence and presence.
Many actuarial employers recognize the importance of leadership development and offer structured programs tailored to early-career professionals. These programs typically include rotational assignments across different business areas, mentorship from senior leaders, and targeted training on soft skills like communication and conflict resolution. For example, programs at companies like OneAmerica Financial and Unum provide multi-year, rotational experiences that expose you to diverse teams and projects, accelerating both your technical and leadership growth[2][4]. Such experiences not only deepen your understanding of the business but also help you build a strong network within the organization.
Effective communication is a cornerstone of actuarial leadership. You need to be able to explain complex technical concepts clearly to non-actuarial audiences, including senior management and clients. Practicing storytelling and simplifying your message can make a big difference. Try rehearsing your explanations in front of peers or even recording yourself to identify areas for improvement. Taking opportunities to present your work or lead discussions, even in small team meetings, builds your confidence and presence over time[6].
Problem-solving and adaptability are also vital leadership skills. The actuarial profession is fast-changing, with new regulations, technologies, and market conditions emerging regularly. Leaders don’t just react—they anticipate and guide their teams through change. As an early-career actuary, seek to understand not just the “how” but the “why” behind your work. For example, when assigned a valuation project with established methods, challenge yourself to learn the rationale behind those methods and explore whether there are ways to improve efficiency or accuracy. Sharing these insights with your team shows that you think strategically, a trait highly valued in leaders[3][6].
Finally, developing a leadership mindset means viewing your career as a journey rather than a checklist of exams. While passing SOA exams is crucial, leadership growth happens through experience, relationships, and continuous learning. Set personal goals around leadership skills—such as improving your public speaking, managing a small team, or mentoring a junior colleague—and seek feedback regularly. Reflect on your progress and be patient; leadership takes time to develop but the investment pays off immensely.
In summary, building leadership skills as an early-career actuary before SOA Fellowship exams involves:
- Taking initiative and volunteering for projects or responsibilities that stretch your capabilities
- Embracing opportunities to learn from mistakes and step out of your comfort zone
- Cultivating strong workplace relationships and seeking mentorship
- Engaging in professional organizations and volunteer roles to expand your network and influence
- Participating in rotational leadership development programs offered by employers
- Practicing clear and effective communication with diverse audiences
- Developing strategic problem-solving skills and adaptability
- Setting intentional leadership goals and reflecting on your growth
By actively working on these areas, you position yourself not just as a technically skilled actuary but as a future leader who can guide teams, influence decisions, and shape the profession. Starting early with leadership development will make the path to Fellowship and beyond much more rewarding and impactful.