In my presidential address, I talked about the challenges the IFoA has in engaging with its members. For example, I spoke about the fact that some sections of our membership feel their needs are not quite being met, or that they are undervalued by the IFoA. It’s essential we address these concerns and are clear on what we are offering to our diverse membership, ensuring it represents good value to all.
One way we engage with our members is through the annual membership survey, in which all were invited to take part last year; it gives you the opportunity to say how it feels to be an IFoA member. I was delighted to see that 21% of you took part, a record response rate, which means that we have a solid, reliable body of data to work with. Thanks to all those who took the time to complete the survey, the results of which are summarised in this edition of The Actuary.
With engagement in mind, I was delighted to see the launch in February of our new digital community platform, IFoA communities (actuaries.org.uk/about-us/ifoa-communities).
This is an exciting opportunity for us to connect globally, discuss emerging topics, learn from experts, meet likeminded individuals and collaborate in an organic, easy-to-navigate online environment.
This launch provides the perfect link into this month’s wellbeing theme. I often reflect on how lucky I feel to be part of a thriving profession; when I talk to friends who aren’t members of a profession, I feel they are missing out. This was pressed home to me at the Life and GIRO conferences last November, where it was great to see everyone reconnect with colleagues and friends. It is human nature to want to be part of a group, and this attachment is key for our wellbeing. Hopefully, you value being part of our great profession – and IFoA communities offers a superb opportunity to take that a step further and connect more closely with likeminded colleagues. I’d encourage you to get stuck in.
Matt Saker is the president of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries
