Who will lead the SOA? You decide.

2023 Board Member Candidate

Han Henry Chen, FSA 2016, FCIA 2017, MAAA 2018
Senior Manager
Ernst and Young LLP
Chicago, IL

Introduction

The winds of change are sweeping through our profession, compelling us to adapt and embrace fresh perspectives and ideas. It is of utmost importance that we navigate the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities before us. As a proud representative of the Generation Y actuaries, I am wholeheartedly committed to advocating for our unique needs and aspirations within the esteemed actuarial profession.

The SOA stands as the epitome of actuarial excellence worldwide. However, the decreasing number of candidates raises concerns, as many are shifting towards data science. I am fervently dedicated to promoting the actuarial profession and engaging potential candidates from across the globe. My foremost goal is to foster an inclusive environment that encourages the participation and engagement of all actuaries, regardless of age or experience. Most importantly, I yearn for future actuaries to have the same bountiful opportunities that have enriched my own journey. Recognizing the significance of professional development for young actuaries, I am committed to supporting initiatives that provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and tailored educational resources for current and upcoming members. By investing in our growth and development, we can fortify our profession and ensure a bright future for all actuaries.

Furthermore, I embrace an unyielding passion for leveraging technology and data analytics to elevate our actuarial endeavors. In this digital age, we stand at the precipice of harnessing automation, artificial intelligence, and big data to enhance our efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making processes. I will tirelessly champion the awareness and integration of these cutting-edge tools into our profession, while remaining steadfast in addressing ethical considerations that may arise.

I firmly believe that a collaborative effort, transcending generational boundaries, can construct a dynamic and sustainable future for the actuarial profession. I am committed to listening to your concerns, ideas, and aspirations and will tenaciously represent your interests on the Board of Directors. With your invaluable support, my aim is to serve as the harbinger of change, progress, and unity within the SOA. Together, we can shape a future that cherishes and harnesses the unique perspectives of our younger colleagues, ensuring that our profession remains relevant and impactful in the face of an ever-transforming world.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your trust and consideration.

Brief Description of Current Work

I am a senior manager in EY’s Insurance and Actuarial Advisory Services organization, based in the firm’s Chicago office. My area of expertise lies in actuarial transformation, where I lead initiatives and provide guidance in actuarial technology and process automation. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, I assist clients in implementing impactful changes, encompassing data, model, system, process, and people transformations. When not engaged in client work, I volunteer with the SOA as Vice-Chair of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Section Council, member of the Volunteer Awards Committee, and POG member for several research projects.

Primary Area(s) of Practice

Life, Technology

Bio

Since joining EY Chicago in 2016, Henry has been working in the firm’s Insurance and Actuarial Advisory Services practice as an actuarial consultant. Prior to joining EY, Henry worked in the insurance industry in Canada. Henry specializes in actuarial transformation for life and annuity insurance, and he currently co-leads the firm’s actuarial technology and process automation offering. His skill set encompasses a diverse range of specialties, including valuation, actuarial modeling, financial and regulatory reporting, as well as risk management.

Throughout his career, Henry has successfully helped life and annuity insurance companies pursue actuarial modernization. He has played a crucial role in implementing initiatives such as US GAAP LDTI and IFRS17, while also designing effective operating models for clients. Henry's technical acumen, coupled with his aptitude for cross-functional collaboration, has positioned him as a valuable resource for insurance companies seeking to navigate business transformations and analyze strategic implications. His genuine passion for problem-solving and profound appreciation for the relationships he has cultivated over the years make him an exceptional partner in the pursuit of organizational success.

Henry's dedication extends beyond his professional pursuits. He has also actively volunteered for the SOA, starting as an exam grader and writer. Recognizing his passion for helping actuaries embrace technology and innovation, he eagerly seized opportunities to contribute to the Society, paying forward the empowerment and opportunities he has received. They include the following:

• Vice-Chair, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Section (2022 – Present)
• Member, Volunteer Awards Committee (2021 – Present)
• Chair, SOA Outstanding Volunteer Award in 2019 (2019 – 2021)
• Council, Technology Section (2017-2020)
• Exam writer and grader, QFIPM Exam (2017-current)
• POG members for various SOA research projects
• Various speaking roles at the SOA conferences
• SOA Outstanding Volunteer Award recipient in 2019.

Henry graduated with Dean’s Honours from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Mathematics in actuarial science, statistics and financial analysis and risk management. Henry is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries.