Where are you based?
London.
What volunteer role(s) do you do for the IFoA?
Chair of the Climate Change Scenario Testing (CCST) Working Party and member of the Life Climate Change Working Party.
How long have you been volunteering?
I started in 2016 as a marker, then began contributing to working parties in 2018.
What’s involved in your role(s)?
The CCST is working to create a multi-disciplinary climate stress and scenario testing framework. We are a diverse group in terms of experience, practice area and location, so are split into sub-groups. My job is to drive the work forward and ensure there is a consistent approach between groups.
What motivates you to volunteer for the IFoA?
It’s an opportunity to challenge myself and expand my knowledge.
What have you/do you hope to achieve in your volunteer role?
I hope the CCST can add something meaningful in terms of climate scenario testing, providing a clear approach.
What new skills or knowledge do you think you have developed?
In previous working groups I learnt about topics that I did not work on day to day. The CCST is my first time chairing a group, which I am sure will come with many lessons.
Has this assisted your lifelong learning?
Every volunteering experience has provided an opportunity to learn something new.
Do you think volunteering has helped you in your day job?
Working with a diverse group of people is an opportunity to develop soft skills.
Have there been any memorable moments?
Being asked to chair the CCST was special.
How do you balance your day job and your volunteer role?
It takes organisation, but Milliman is supportive of volunteering as it supports our corporate mission (to serve our clients to protect the health and financial wellbeing of people everywhere).
How do you relax away from the office?
I have three young children, so relaxing is not necessarily an option! I enjoy researching home renovation, and baking.
What would you say to others considering a volunteer role?
When the call went out for CCST volunteers, I was approached by someone who was not sure if she should apply as she was still a student. Don’t let this get in the way if there is a topic you feel passionate about – you may not be selected, but if you lead with passion, you will end up where you need to be.
Who is your role model – in life or in business?
I don’t have a ‘role model’ – I am inspired by people’s stories, particularly where they faced adversity but stayed true to their beliefs.
What was your earliest dream job?
As a child I wanted to act – I didn’t want to decide on just one thing. Luckily I managed to find consulting, which allows me to work with different people and organisations.
What word best describes you?
Prepared.
Do you prefer a staycation or holiday abroad?
I love beach holidays: white sand, crystal water… I think that answers the question!
If you were locked in a famous building for one night...which would it be and why?
St Paul’s – my favourite place in London.
What would you consider to be the most brilliant moment of your career to date?
Qualifying. Getting there was difficult, and along that journey I moved continents and had my first child. By the time I qualified I was so fed up I didn’t even celebrate, but I can look back at it now as a brilliant achievement.
Image credit | iStock
