How did you get your job at APR?

The application process was well laid out in the job profile I saw before I applied: a CV and covering letter, an online test, a phone interview and then an assessment centre consisting of an interview and another written test. It was helpful having such a clear view of the process.

I found the tests especially to be varied and engaging and the whole process gave an indication that APR were looking at me as a whole rather than considering just a set of qualifications. This certainly made me feel more suited to the role.

Why did you choose APR?

Once I had decided that I wanted to move into industry and away from academia, I was keen to get back to my actuarial roots. APR’s job advert jumped out at me and was an opportunity that I got excited about. The two main draws to APR were their exceptional training and the likelihood of varied projects in which I’d have the chance to work with a diverse range of clients, and therefore gain a broad work experience. As someone who loves to learn and likes the idea of variety it seemed like a perfect fit.

What skills have you found to be particularly useful in this sector/profession?

I have found problem solving to be a very valuable skill in the work I have done so far. Whether it is establishing the best way to take on a task or investigating errors to find the root cause, working through problems systematically and enjoying the puzzle have been vital.

Communication and organisation have also been key, especially since I have worked on projects impacting many teams across a business.

How do you see yourself progressing from your current position in the next 2-3 years?

With APR’s study support and their strong exam record I hope to complete my exams in the next 2-3 years.

So far, I have worked mainly in systems migrations and I would hope to broaden my experience in the next few years by taking on new types of projects. I also hope to develop my technical skills, utilising APR’s high-quality training materials.