Graduate Profiles

Ann So (Underwriting)

I graduated from Warwick University with a degree in Master of Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics with actuarial studies. I always wanted a job that involves plenty of customer interaction, and at the same time uses the analytical tools learnt from my degree course. When I started looking for jobs, I was attracted to underwriting as underwriters are the front line of an insurance company who negotiate price and terms with brokers and clients. They are also the ultimate users of an actuary's models. The risk assessment process requires strong analytical, data interpretation and computational skills. A mixture of both numerical and communication tasks makes underwriting the perfect job for me.

Aspen being a young and dynamic company gives it a competitive advantage over many of its competitors, especially during the downturn in the economic cycle. My team, Specialty Reinsurance, has been named the "Best Global Reinsurance Company for Speciality Lines" by Reactions Magazine for two consecutive years, which proves Aspen's rapid growth over the years.

I joined Aspen as an underwriting assistant in the Specialty Reinsurance team in 2007. Since joining, I have been able to work hands-on with underwriters on a variety of models, ranging from Aviation, Space, Marine, Crop and Bloodstock. This includes assisting the underwriters with rating and pricing business, some administrative work to allow myself to learn how the reinsurance treaties work and to participate in broker meetings. 

Aspen has a very generous policy on employees' personal development. The graduate induction programme consisted of presentations from different business areas, an introduction to the London Market and reinsurance, IT and key skills training courses. I am now working on the ACII exam. Aspen provides me with a full range of support from free study materials to study days for revision. Although underwriting is a steep learning curve, with all this support, I am really enjoying the challenge.