SOA Election Evolution
The Society of Actuaries (SOA) is committed to continually improving how we serve our members and the profession. Last year, the Board of Directors completed a comprehensive review of its governance, gathering member feedback, evaluating current practices, and identifying opportunities to evolve.
In 2025, a set of proposed changes to the SOA Bylaws based on this work was brought to FSA members for a vote. The SOA Bylaws changes were not approved by the required 2/3-member vote. In 2026, the Board approved three separate proposed Bylaws changes that reflect member feedback. During the 2026 Board elections, Fellows voted on each one individually and passed two of the proposals: to reduce the Board size from 18 to 12 members and to separate the roles of Board President and Chair.
The overall process highlighted several ways to strengthen Board governance, some of which do not require a member vote. The SOA Board moved forward with steps to enhance its processes, add transparency, and better position the organization for the future, starting with the 2026 election cycle.
Board Recruiting and Selection Committee
Formerly known as the Nominating Committee, the Board Recruiting and Selection Committee consists of nine Fellows serving staggered three-year terms. Its primary responsibility is to develop a ballot with the strongest candidates for the annual SOA Board of Directors election, in alignment with SOA policies. To do this, the committee will assess nominees based on the skills and experience needed on the Board, the SOA’s Strategic Plan and current organizational priorities.
The Board Recruiting and Selection Committee also partners with an external executive search firm to identify highly qualified candidates.
Individuals can self-nominate for President Elect and Vice Chair or elected Board member positions. The committee provides public notice to SOA members about the election and the call for nominations.
Simultaneous Board Member and President Elect and Vice Chair Nomination
In the 2026 Board election, SOA Fellows could put their name in for both President Elect and Vice Chair and to be an elected Board member simultaneously. However, candidates could be selected to run for only one of those positions.
Skills and Experience-Based Candidate Selection
A skills and experience-based approach to Board candidate selection helps ensure the SOA Board has the expertise and perspectives needed to navigate a complex and changing professional landscape. By aligning Board composition more closely with strategic priorities, we can support a governance structure that is resilient, innovative, and prepared for future demands.
The SOA collected information from continuing Board members regarding their skills and experience in certain defined areas. After assessing that information, we identified areas where the Board would benefit from some additional experience. The Board Recruiting and Selection Committee, in close collaboration with the Board, developed a skills and experience profile that served as a framework for identifying and evaluating nominees. Working with an external recruiting firm, the committee used this profile to assess nominees based on how well they aligned with the sought-after skills and experiences. Every year, a defined set of skills and specific expertise and experience identified as current gaps on the Board will be published, enhancing transparency in the nomination process.
The skills and experiences identified by the SOA Board for the 2026 election, included:
- AI/Technology
- Risk Management
- Global Expertise