Working in First Actuarial’s software development team

What does the software development team do?

First Actuarial’s growing software development team is based in Leeds. Our projects give staff varied work and opportunities across a range of business areas and technologies.

We work closely in a flat structure, with no rigid hierarchy holding people back. It’s a friendly working environment that is relaxed but productive and focused. We have a no-blame culture, and people are positively rewarded for doing well.

We work within an agile framework, with strong lines of communication. This includes daily team gatherings – part of the SCRUM approach to work management – and a flexible and iterative approach to software development.

We build solutions for pension schemes to help our clients – either customised for individual clients, or systems and tools that we make available across our client base. These solutions include:

• Custom websites
• Financial modellers
• Online investment analysis tools.

We also develop systems and tools to improve the way the company works. We have recently delivered projects in these business areas:

• Pension scheme valuations
• Task management
• Accounts.

How does the software development team develop its staff?

In a fast-moving area like IT, narrow specialisms can be restricting, and can hinder individual careers. Instead, we involve every team- member in the full project lifecycle – from specification to release, on both front-end and back-end development work.

When we recruit new staff we look at the individual in the round, beyond their qualifications. We often employ computer science graduates, but this is not always the case. All staff need a mix of communication and technical skills.

We offer the opportunity to study for IT accreditations, but it’s just as important to be able to learn quickly on the job. Some team-members pursue a pension qualification designed for non- specialists to improve their understanding of the business.

Meet the software development team member

Emma Nicholson

Meet Emma
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First Actuarial case studies

The Kennel Club

Concerned about the risk of an Employer contribution increase as a result of high liabilities, Trustees of the Kennel Club Pension Fund turned to First Actuarial.

“They’re extremely professional and helpful. Their input always seems sound, logical and well presented. First Actuarial handled the transition well, they provide us with helpful guidance, and have delivered what they promised when they pitched for the work.”

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RSPB

The RSPB was determined to minimise the impact of its new defined contribution scheme on employees, and appointed First Actuarial to support the transition and select a provider with strong ethical values.

“I would definitely recommend working with First Actuarial. Their consultants went over and above the call of duty to make sure the project progressed smoothly.”

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Bolton Cares

Taking responsibility for care services previously provided by a local authority, Bolton Cares turned to First Actuarial for help in setting up a competitive and affordable DC pension scheme for its staff.

“They’ve been really helpful and professional throughout the project, and we’ll use them again if we need specialist advice.”

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