Description: Executives often tell subject matter experts such as actuaries, “You should think more strategically!” But, the executives never define what they mean by “thinking more strategically”. This article defines the skills actuaries need to be perceived as being more strategic. It will provide practical steps actuaries can take to gain more strategic influence and escape the trap of being perceived as only a subject matter expert who provides limited strategic value.

Description: The authors share eight vulnerabilities that leaders need to watch out for.

Description: The article hits highlights of of an annual meeting session that featured Sue Ann Collins, Sharon Giffen, and Tonya Manning discussing everything from career development to work life balance.

Description: What does rappelling down a building have to do with an actuarial career? One actuary connects the dots between her personal interests and her career trajectory. Read on to find out how you too can piece together this puzzle of hobby and career!

Description: A compilation of reader responses is presented to a real life situation. This issue’s case study involved a candidate for an actuarial position who didn't handle salary discussions well, and whether that should impact the hiring decision.

Description: Interview with Sara Teppema showing her career journey and leadership philosophy.

Description: A summary of the MPD section's involvement with the 2013 SOA Annual Meeting.

Description: A look back over the past 3 years on the MPD council.

Description: Self-management is your ability to use awareness of your emotions to stay flexible and direct your behavior positively. When you understand what you are feeling, you can effectively choose how to react. Knowing your individual tendencies can help you prepare for future events by consciously deciding to change or adjust your behavior when certain situations occur. The article shares strategies, examples and personal insights to illustrate how to develop the skill of self-management.

Description: A real life situation is posed involving a management, leadership, or other business decision, and readers are invited to submit the irresponses to "What Would You Do?" This issue’s case study involved a staff performance issue faced by an actuary new to management.