Actuarial Pensions Consultant trainee Review

My role involves working on a range of client teams with colleagues who provide advice and support to either the trustees handling the pension scheme, or the company that provides it. My more technical work involves: - Regular assessment of the financial position of pension schemes - Identifying and implementing ways for trustees and companies to reduce the risks in relation to their schemes, including longevity risks, investment risks and inflation risk - Carrying out calculations relating to the pension scheme for the company's financial accounts; and with respect to individual pension scheme members' benefits - Estimating pension protection fund levies

Yes definitely, I have vastly improved my excel skills as i have to work with a variety of models that are all excel based. I have also learnt to code in the companies own program, called demographic horizons. My soft skills have also improved as I have to work well and closely with other colleagues and this could involve client facing work. I've also had the opportunity develop my presentation skills, to a large group.

I more so had to ask to be given more responsibility when I wanted it. As a junior that's there for only a year it's difficult to demonstrate you are capable, however if your persistent enough and back it with good quality work you'll be fine. It also depends on what clients you have because some are larger and more busy than others, therefore naturally that effects what kind of opportunities you are faced with

I got a lot of support. You are assigned a manager as well as a buddy and I aware of a new mentorship scheme now too if that is something you are looking for. There was always someone I could ask if I ever needed anything, even if it was just the person sat next to me as everyone in my office is really friendly and welcoming. People look out for the new starters, which is nice.

Company culture was fine, it was good as in it was all very positive and everyone is working well together to progress and achieve for the company. The atmosphere promoted work, everyone has tasks to do but at the same time we can have chats amongst ourselves too. The only thing is that the company is not very diverse up north but I think that's a problem with the corporate space as a whole.

I honestly had a really great time at Aon, I've met some many people and really had the chance to kick start my career. I'd definitely recommend getting a taste of the working world before having to jump straight into it, you'll learn a lot and it will help you decided where you want your career to go. There were lots of socials too, which helped build a lot of connections with colleagues.

Yes

I would recommend that you do a little research into your specific role, as it will show the interviewers that you are genuinely interested in the position. For example research what's happening in the news with pensions and any new legislation that may be coming in as these have massive impacts on the business and therefore how we advise our clients. You don't have to know everything but definitely be enthusiastic, it's the way to go.