The New Zealand Society of Actuaries (NZSA) has announced the appointment of Helen Mexted (pictured above) as its first chief executive, effective April 3.
The appointment marks a significant development as the organisation seeks to extend its reach and enhance professional standards amidst evolving risk landscapes.
NZSA president Scott Lewis said that Mexted's appointment is pivotal in supporting the society's operational and strategic needs.
“We're delighted to welcome Helen Mexted as our inaugural chief executive,” he said. “This is an important new leadership role which will support our council, committees, and members as we lead the profession around three strategic priorities: influence, community, and excellence.”
Mexted, who brings a wealth of experience from her roles in financial services, membership organisations, and government sectors, is set to collaborate closely with industry and regulatory figures.
Lewis emphasised that Mexted's broad background would play a key role in providing a unified and effective representation of actuaries in their professional capacities.
“Helen brings diverse experience in financial and professional services, membership bodies, and government, and will help us to work with the industry and regulators to bring a consistent, strong voice to the work actuaries do,“ he said.
Commenting on her new role, Mexted noted the critical period facing the sector with complex challenges in insurance, finance, climate, and retirement scenarios.
“It's a critical time for the sector as we deal with increasingly complex risks, and increasing demand for the services our members provide,” she said. “Actuaries are highly skilled. They use advanced mathematics, statistics, business, finance, economics, risk management, data management, demography, and behavioural science to provide advice in sectors including healthcare, superannuation and KiwiSaver, insurance, banking, and investments. Increasingly, we are also seeing actuaries involved in non-financial sector organisations that aim to improve outcomes through data-driven insights.
“Over 2024, we will bring a stronger voice and leadership to the issues our members face in their work to help estimate outcomes and manage future risks.”
