Description: This is a conversation with two critical staff members of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) about their experience there. Jane Lesch is a non-actuary who has been working at the SOA for over 20 years, and is an engagement specialist. Mike Boot is an actuary who retired at the end of February after 15 years at the SOA, most recently as managing director. We spoke to both Jane and Mike to get their take on what leadership is about, and how working at the SOA impacted them.

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: Kenneth Lay died a little over a month ago. I don’t mean to beat a dead horse, no pun intended, but I’d like to ask a question; Is it ever appropriate to celebrate someone’s death? Well, yeah! Mourn Hitler? Grieve Dahmer? Not likely. But what about a fellow like Kenneth Lay? He destroyed people’s lives as surely as these villains, but, as human beings, is it appropriate to delight in his untimely death?

Description: This article discusses the importance of identifying foolish trades that actuaries make and offers some practical steps to minimize these type of trades.

Description: An overview of Olga Jacobs' professional development journey and how it helped her on her path to leadership.

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: Based on a decades-long study, honesty is the most important quality in a leader. This article addresses ways to establish trust with their co-workers.

Description: A Message from the President-Elect...Think NAAJ by Rob Brown from The Stepping Stone Newsletter, March 2000, Issue No. 3.

Description: Message from the Chairperson by Lisa F. Tourville from The Stepping Stone Newsletter, March 2000, Issue No. 3.

Description: The author encourages actuaries to develop their non-technical skills and notes the activities of the Management and Personal Development Section that can help in that regard.