Unlocking Growth and Diversity: My Journey in Employee Benefits at KPMG Belgium

I chose to start my career in Employee Benefits at KPMG because of the exceptional mix of diversity, opportunities, and continuous learning it offers. This diversity allows me to explore different aspects of the field and delve into areas that align perfectly with my interests and strengths. Moreover, the dynamic nature of the job provides many opportunities for growth, whether through tackling new challenges, collaborating with diverse teams, or staying informed about industry developments. The diverse nature of the role means that there is no typical day in this job. Each week brings new challenges, which I believe is an immense professional advantage and keeps my work exciting and stimulating.

My role consists of performing actuarial valuations of pensions plans, audit support related to pension plans, and risk management of pension funds. The combination of these tasks is an optimal blend in which I can use my mathematical, financial, and regulatory expertise. The role of an actuary is not solely focused on models and numbers; it entails striking a balance between precise data analysis and strategic decision-making, while also delving into legal and macroeconomic contexts. We use our ability to quantify risk to serve our clients effectively. Thanks to the different projects of our team, you can choose the type of actuary you would like to become, depending on your skills and motivation.

Starting your career as an actuary in a consulting firm offers numerous advantages. Consulting offers the possibility to be involved in a variety of projects across different industries, providing faster career progression and more client interaction opportunities. Actuaries benefit from a broader perspective on the industry, extensive skill development programs, and the chance to work with a variety of clients, leading to a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment. At KPMG, I have gotten responsibilities from the start and have been entrusted to take important decisions, which has greatly contributed to my professional growth. KPMG offers regular training, feedback, and opportunities to undertake challenging projects to develop my skills.

Personally, I see the small size of our team as a benefit, as it made me feel welcome right from the beginning. All the members of our team share the same commitment to supporting each other to serve our clients effectively. The team members have different academic backgrounds which enables us to learn from each other. Furthermore, KPMG ensures that its employees have a good work-life balance and I particularly appreciate the freedom to choose where I want to work.

If you're considering a path in actuarial science and looking for a welcoming, dynamic, and rewarding environment, joining our Employee Benefits team would be an excellent decision. You'll take on meaningful roles while being a part of a team that values collaboration and mutual support. This makes the work not only rewarding but also fulfilling, providing a platform to flourish in your career.

Ruben Geurts, Employee Benefits Consultant