Bartosz Lange

Predicting the Future

As a math teacher, my mom always spoke highly of the actuary profession and encouraged me to consider it from a young age. Initially, I was more focused on becoming a doctor or scientist, while actuarial work remained a niche field in Poland that I didn't pay much attention to. Halfway through my molecular biology studies, I decided to pursue a second major in economics. It was during this time that I discovered the wonders of actuarial science, which demands expertise in mathematics, statistics, law, and economics. After graduating in both fields, I ultimately became an actuary, proving my mom right all along – moms always are.

I began my career as a pricing actuary, preparing actuarial valuation of commercial offers, but I also gained experience in various analysis and reporting tasks. Being an actuary is about looking into the future and predicting what may happen in 5, 10 or even 30 years. Actuaries make sure that insurance company has the financial resources to meet its obligations to clients now and anytime in the future.

A Challenging Start

After some years in the field and while working at MetLife, a friend introduced me to my job at Nationale-Nederlanden. Some time after, Nationale-Nederlanden acquired MetLife's Polish business, reuniting me with former colleagues.

Joining Nationale-Nederlanden in April 2020, just when the pandemic struck, was quite a challenge, but the immense support and understanding from my colleagues and supervisor helped me adapt quickly.

A Committed Professional

My current role involves the valuation of technical provisions and company’s own funds to secure the organization's long-term solvency. I conduct analyses of policy portfolios, set up best estimate assumptions securing precision and dependability in financial planning. Additionally, I perform comprehensive assessments of asset-liability alignment to uphold financial commitments while minimizing investment risks. I also prepare detailed reports for the Polish Financial Supervision Authority and the Nationale-Nederlanden Group.

Besides, I’m involved in developing a cash flow model for the combined portfolio post-merger with MetLife. Such model is a pivotal tool for actuaries across modern insurance companies. This task presents a unique opportunity for professional growth amidst the complexities of a merger. It's a challenge unlike any I've faced before and continues to be a stimulating learning journey.

Commitment is fundamental to Nationale-Nederlanden 's values and is integral to my approach to executing my responsibilities. It encompasses giving my maximum effort, maintaining accountability, embodying trustworthiness, and being a dependable colleague others can rely on.

A Place for Everyone

One aspect I cherish about working at Nationale-Nederlanden is the freedom of task execution. There is no micro-management, and innovative ideas are consistently welcomed. I value the autonomy and responsibility I hold for my work and results.

Moreover, the hybrid work model gives me flexibility in choosing office days or working remotely, which is particularly beneficial as a parent of young children.

I have found a supportive environment in Nationale-Nederlanden where everyone has a place. While I've dedicated four years to my area of expertise and value my independence, I recognize that we are all part of the same team working toward shared goals. Our actuarial services encompass various areas, including the valuation of provisions, ALM analyses, capital requirements calculations, cash flow models development, new business valuation, planning, and reporting under Solvency 2 and IFRS17. This diversity allows us to explore various dimensions within Nationale-Nederlanden, contributing to a dynamic and fulfilling actuarial professional journey.