First Actuarial has been around since 2004, when a small group of like-minded actuaries came together to bring fresh thinking to pensions consultancy. Two decades later, we’re heading for 20% revenue growth this year, employing around 500 people across six locations.
We’re still an independent business with no chargeable hours targets, giving our people the time to deliver their best work and excel. We shape our high-quality services by listening closely to our clients’ needs. And we price those services fairly.
As we develop our business, prospects for our people grow. Our Basingstoke, Leeds, Manchester, Peterborough, London and Tonbridge offices provide supportive work environments where everyone can make a difference. We enjoy work and celebrate our successes. And we provide support and helpful feedback so we all learn and improve.
We love numbers, but we love people more. Staff wellbeing and work-life balance have always been core values. Beyond the firm, we’re known for our integrity. We’re happy to challenge conventional thinking and speak up. Our pioneering work is set to transform the lives of millions of younger people with a new type of pension.
Actuarial Graduate Opportunities 2025
Following a very successful summer internship programme, which allowed us to fill most of our graduate roles, we now invite applications for our remaining openings in Peterborough and Tonbridge.
All our graduates are welcomed into a stimulating work environment, working with professionals from diverse backgrounds in friendly and close-knit teams.
What do actuaries do?
Actuaries use numeracy skills to help pension scheme trustees and employers manage their pension schemes. We grapple with huge uncertainties like inflation and manage the risks that can damage people’s lives.
What will I be doing on a day-to-day basis?
Although it sounds like a cliché, no two days will be the same. As an actuarial student, you ‘ll be working with a range of clients – both for-profit and not-for-profit – on actuarial calculations, models and client communications.
How will First Actuarial support my career progression?
As a new graduate, you’ll join our training programme to build up essential skills and knowledge. We provide an excellent study support package – including IFoA membership fees, study materials and study leave – to help you qualify as an actuary.
Testimonials
"I joined First Actuarial as a Actuarial Trainee as part of a career change and I’m so glad I did. The thing that immediately stood out to me was the supportive and friendly environment, which has allowed me to develop without the worry of making mistakes. You are given real responsibility early on doing actuarial calculations in valuations and pension cost accounting work, safe in the knowledge that the work will be checked and reviewed. Having this system of doers, checkers and reviewers allows you to learn through experience which is the best way.
Becoming an Actuary is a demanding and time-consuming commitment but First Actuarial has the supportive framework to allow you to balance work, exams and your free time. I would highly recommend First Actuarial to anyone considering this career.”
Peter Wattle, Trainee Actuary, First Actuarial LLP
“Choosing to start my actuarial career at First Actuarial is one of the best decisions I’ve made. As a mid-sized consultancy, it strikes the perfect balance — big enough to offer meaningful and varied projects, yet small enough to foster genuine care and support within a tight-knit actuarial team. From day one, I’ve been immersed in impactful work, making a difference for pension scheme members. I am given real responsibility within projects and comprehensive training to support that, which will ultimately make me a well-rounded actuary. I’d recommend First Actuarial as a great place to work for any aspiring actuary.”
James Mulligan, Trainee Actuary, First Actuarial LLP
Who are we looking for
We’re looking for individuals with first-rate numerical skills and a strong academic performance. You should have at least a predicted 2:1 undergraduate degree in any discipline, as well as the following skills:
- Communication – A flair for communication, able to express complicated ideas clearly and to evolve your communication style as you get to know clients.
- Strength of character – A can-do approach to problem-solving, and relationship-building skills with colleagues and clients.
- Self-discipline –Determination and motivation to combine full-time work and study.
- Problem solving – An agile mind able to consider challenges from different angles.
What we offer you
We’ll actively support you as you build your career – and reward you for doing so. At every level of seniority, we offer:
- A competitive remuneration package, including bonus and profit-sharing payments
- Private health insurance, life insurance and income protection insurance
- A non-contributory pension
- Full training and study support.
Our trainees develop a broad, transferable skillset which covers both technical and consulting areas. You will have opportunities to work on a range of projects, including non-traditional actuarial ones, and to develop broad business-critical skills.
All graduates are office-based for the first few months, thereafter, for colleagues who prefer homeworking for part of the week, we have hybrid working in place. We’re also flexible on working day arrangements and will happily accommodate a range of personal commitments from day one.
Our straightforward approach to recruitment which involves role-specific tests as well as interviews and a short presentation, ensures equal opportunities for all applicants.
Should you require information in a different format, have other accessibility or reasonable adjustment requirements, or if you have any problems not listed on this page, please contact HRHelpdesk@firstactuarial.co.uk.
Please note that we can only accept applications from candidates who hold the right to work in the UK.
