Inside story: Daniela Dinis Pateiro, Darras Consulting

When did you first consider an actuarial career and why?

While finishing my bachelor’s degree, one of my professors introduced me to the master’s degree in actuarial science and suggested that this could be a good option. I did some research and fell in love with the career path.

What subject(s) did you study at university?

I have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics applied to economics and management, and a master’s degree in actuarial science from ISEG in Portugal.

What has been most challenging throughout your work/study life to date?

Balancing study with work – it took a lot of effort not to work or reply to emails
on study days.

What do you enjoy most about being an actuary?

The fact that the work has a real impact on people’s lives. I also get to spend my days doing what I love – setting up complex spreadsheets and doing calculations – and getting paid to do so!

What is your most actuarial habit?

Thinking things through in the finest detail and elaborating different possible scenarios so that I have every situation covered.

Where would you like to be in five years’ time?

I would like to be focused on technically challenging projects that require modelling and complex reasoning. One of my areas of interest is mortality, so I can see myself getting involved with CMI work as a volunteer.

What is the greatest risk you have ever taken?

I am a risk averse person, but I did find myself buying a house amid a pandemic! Next time, I will consider this external risk in my decision-making process.

Give one piece of advice to the next generation of students entering the profession?

Study hard and never give up – the path may be long and hard sometimes, but it pays off.

Who is your role model – in life or in business?

I have crossed paths with many incredible people – my parents and grandparents, who are an example of resilience and hard work, my boyfriend, who can power through the most challenging tasks (and finished an MBA this year!), my professors, who were always a source of inspiration,
and my colleagues, whose professionalism I look up to.

How do you relax in your spare time?

Watching series and practising yoga. I am also a ‘foodie’, so I enjoy discovering new restaurants.

Name one skill (aside from technical) that is an important quality for an actuary.

Knowing how to communicate complex topics to different audiences.

Now that you have qualified… what next?

I am always eager to learn so I will likely continue my studies and perhaps learn a new language, or how to play the guitar!