A fascination with numbers first drew Krishna Sharma, from India, to actuarial science. What turned that interest into a career was seeing what those numbers could actually do.
“I have always been interested in numbers and statistics,” Krishna says. “I was fascinated by the logic behind complex calculations and how they are applied to solve real-world business challenges across different industries.”
Today, as an Analyst in Actuarial Services, Krishna experiences that combination of analytical thinking, problem-solving and business impact through varied client work.
Variety that keeps the work interesting
For Krishna, actuarial work doesn't follow one repetitive routine. His year moves through different projects and priorities, beginning with accounting valuations to support year-end financial disclosures before shifting to client data reviews, liability calculations and information for auditors. Later comes funding valuations, regulatory and government filings and ad hoc client projects.
“The variety of work keeps the role both challenging and rewarding throughout the year,” he says.
It's an experience that reflects WTW's broader actuarial career proposition: varied and intellectually challenging work that gives colleagues opportunities to deepen their expertise.
Using automation to add value
One experience Krishna is particularly proud of is contributing to an automation initiative that streamlines how client data is reviewed and queried. The solution generates targeted questions and follow-up requests whenever additional clarification is needed, helping teams gather complete and accurate information more efficiently.
The goal is to achieve cleaner, higher-quality data in a single review cycle, reducing effort for both clients and project teams. Krishna has designed validation checks for several complex clients, enabling teams to begin funding valuations with greater confidence in the underlying data. “Contributing to a solution that improves efficiency through automation while enhancing the overall client experience has been incredibly rewarding.”
Technology remains part of Krishna's everyday work. Tools including Quantify, Experience Study Tool, Gain and Loss Analysis and SWIFT Forecasting help him and his teams value pension liabilities, review assumptions and give clients insights into the long-term financial position of their pension plans.
Learning, then taking on more
Krishna began with structured training to build his technical foundation, followed by hands-on experience with different client teams. He later progressed from being the primary analyst on his clients to becoming a technical reviewer, giving him “a broader perspective and greater responsibility.” Interactions with senior actuaries and U.S. stakeholders have also given him opportunities to learn and gain exposure to global best practices.
A culture built around sharing knowledge
Technical development is only one part of Krishna's experience. The people around him matter too.
“The culture at WTW is one of the things I value most. It is highly collaborative, supportive and focused on continuous learning.”
Krishna values how approachable colleagues are, from peers to senior leaders, and how willing they are to share their knowledge. He also highlights WTW's focus on employee wellbeing and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
For someone considering an actuarial career, his advice is simple: don't think of it as numbers alone.
“My advice to anyone considering an actuarial career is to view it as a profession that combines technical expertise with problem-solving and communication skills.”
For Krishna, WTW brings those elements together through training, impactful projects, continuous learning, varied client experiences and collaborative colleagues.
This is just a glimpse of what work and life as an actuary here are all about. Click here to find out more and explore our current opportunities.
- Colleague Spotlight
- Experienced Professionals