Actuarial & Consulting Industrial Placement Review

In my role as an Actuarial and Consulting Placement Student at Isio, I support the team in delivering tailored solutions to clients. My day-to-day work involves a mix of technical analysis, client collaboration, and professional development.
A typical day might start with analysing pension scheme data using tools like Excel and in house software like iVal to model liabilities or assess funding strategies. I often assist in preparing client reports and presentations, ensuring calculations are accurate and insights are clearly communicated. For example, I might help draft a triennial valuation report or prepare meeting papers with documents that will be discussed in a trustee meeting. I have also completed different member calculations like Transfer Values.

Yes, I was entrusted with meaningful responsibilities that directly contributed to client projects and team objectives from day one.
I drafted sections of valuation reports, member calculations and funding updates.
I have proposed assumptions to be adopted in Scheme's new CETV Basis and Factor Review.
I was assigned my own clients as well as my own accounting work to complete ahead of deadlines.

During my placement in Isio’s Actuarial and Consulting team, I’ve significantly developed both technical and professional skills.
I have gained hands-on experience with actuarial software and advanced my Excel expertise.
I deepened my understanding of UK pension regulations (e.g., TPR guidelines) by completing Scheme Returns and gained an understanding of their practical implications for client strategies.
My communication skills have significantly improved through presenting at meetings. Balancing multiple deadlines for valuations and de-risking projects taught me to prioritise tasks and collaborate across different client teams.

I have received an immense amount of support and guidance over the course of my placement. I have been supported by my Performance Manager through regular catch-up calls to see my progress, to gain feedback and to check I am meeting my objectives. I was also assigned a buddy and the entire team have been so helpful to help me settle in. Everyone is happy to take time to answer any questions or to explain new pieces of work.

The company culture and general atmosphere is amazing, collaborative and supportive! Teams worked closely together, with senior leaders actively mentoring junior staff and encouraging open dialogue. Everyone is so helpful and it is a really positive environment. The monthly social events are great fun and a nice opportunity to spend time with the team outside of work.

I enjoyed my placement to a great extent, as it provided a perfect balance of technical challenge, client exposure, and professional growth.
I contributed directly to client projects and Senior Managers encouraged questions and involved me in strategic discussions which deepened my understanding of the link between actuarial analysis and business decisions.
Social events, such as team lunches and charity challenges, also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie.

Yes