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Presidential Speaker Series with Sir Adrian Smith - Mathematical Futures: The Actuary in a World Transformed

Sir Adrian Smith will outline how advances in data science, machine learning and artificial intelligence in the world of big data will transform the nature of many industries, including financial services. The broader environment within which mathematics is applied will change rapidly, often led by innovative yet disruptive forces outside. These changes will undoubtedly have an impact on the work of actuaries - and the profession will need to adapt quickly to thrive. Actuaries are well-placed to consider the long-term implications of a world in which data technology informs not just traditional actuarial sectors of insurance, pensions, risk, investment and healthcare, but also to drive policy decisions to address broader societal challenges. Sir Adrian will encourage the profession to step out of its traditional areas of strength, with a more ambitious mindset, to take advantage of the opportunities that these sweeping changes will provide. This is not just about embracing the skill sets which are required in the digital world; a whole new mindset and reinvention are necessary. There is also a heightened need for leadership to identify and develop the appropriate talent for new, emerging roles. Given the IFoA’s public interest perspective, the debate is not just about innovation in data technology but must include fostering trust in data through good ethical practice. Sir Adrian will also speak to the profession’s responsibilities in the ethical implementation of data science and the need for new standards, regulation and transparency to protect society in this new world. John Taylor and Marjorie Ngwenya will join the session as panellists. John will focus on the links between data science, AI and the IFoA's Great Risk Transfer work, and Marjorie will debate how the profession ensures that existing and new technologies work to the benefit and purpose of people.

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