Karen Lockridge, FCIA(1994)
Director candidate
Primary practice area: Investment
Secondary practice area: Pensions
Employer: CAAT Pension Plan
Province: Ontario
CIA Legacy Award level: Award of Distinction (2023)
Position statement
I am excited to be running for the position of Director on the CIA Board. My candidacy is driven by a commitment to serve the public interest and address the critical challenges of our time, including climate change.
In line with its strategic plan, the CIA is making important progress advancing the profession in the areas of climate-change risk and predictive analytics, with coordinated efforts across the Institute with respect to education, professional development, guidance, research and public statements.
We know that these efforts require heavy lifting and that progress is only made with the valuable input of the many volunteers who contribute their time and expertise. Leadership from the Board is critical in guiding and aligning these efforts.
I have spent the last 10 years of my career focusing on climate change and sustainability challenges, through which I have gained an appreciation for the complexity of the related escalating risks. In my current role as Co-Chair of the Actuarial Standards Board’s Designated Group on Climate Change (ISAP 8), I have heard from many members that guidance and education materials are critical to understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change in their work.
My exposure to climate began with my involvement in the consulting firm Mercer’s climate change research, which revealed to me the systemic risk that climate change poses. It was a turning point in my career. This realization steered me toward sustainable finance, based on my belief that robust environmental and social systems are critical to our long-term prosperity.
My campaign is built on three foundational pillars:
- Enhancing the actuary’s role in climate risk and sustainability: I will advocate for and champion the CIA’s strategic objectives to advance the profession in climate-change risk and sustainability, and to engage with external stakeholders. Actuaries possess the right skills to play an active role in these discussions. Also, our clients and stakeholders expect us to be knowledgeable in climate change risks and impact, and to advise them accordingly.
- Ensuring education and research keep pace with escalating risks: In a rapidly changing world, it is imperative that our education, research and professional development evolve to meet new challenges. I am dedicated to ensuring that the CIA provides progressive educational resources and upholds the rigorous standards that actuaries are known for.
- Promoting the value of volunteering: As many of us have experienced, volunteering enriches our profession and enhances our ability to address complex challenges. I will work to promote opportunities for members to engage in meaningful volunteer activities that align with their interests and expertise. I believe this is particularly impactful for members early in their careers.
In conclusion, my vision for the CIA is one of proactive leadership, member engagement and a commitment to excellence. Together, we can propel our profession forward, address pressing issues, and build a resilient and sustainable future. I am honored to seek your support and look forward to the opportunity to serve on the CIA Board.
2023-Present – Actuarial Standards Board – Designated Group on Climate Change (ISAP 8)
2019-22 – CIA Research – Project Oversight Group, Longevity of Buildings and Infrastructures
2017-18 – Public Statements Committee
2014-17 – Climate Change and Sustainability Practice Committee
- 2016-17, Member
- 2014-16, Chair
2014-17 – Committee on CIA Participation to the International Actuarial Association
2014-17 – CIA Board, Director
2014-17 – Human Resources, Finance, and Audit Committee
2008 – Webcast Committee, Chair
1999-2003 – Task Force on Pension Plan Funding
1997-98 – Annual and General Meeting Organizing Committee
1996-98 – Pension Plan Financial Reporting Committe
I am actively involved in the sustainable investing community. I am Chair of the Principles for Responsible Investment’s Asset Owner Technical Advisory Committee, a member of the Pension Investment Association of Canada Investor Stewardship Committee and a member of the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance Public Policy Committee.
Previously, I served on the board of directors at QUEST Canada (2020-24), a charity that promotes smart energy communities in Canada, and served a three-year term as chair of its governance committee.
I have also served as the Chair of the Climate Engagement Canada Technical Committee (2022-23), as a member of the Regional Watershed Alliance of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (2017-21), and as a member of the Government of Canada’s Expert Panel on Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Results (2017-18).
In 2019, I was named one of Canada’s Clean50 leaders in the field of sustainable capitalism.
I graduated from the University of Alberta in 1990 with an honours bachelor of science degree in applied mathematics.
What do you think of the effectiveness and importance of the CIA in its core functions?
While all the CIA’s core functions remain important, I would highlight three aspects:
- Serving the public interest for the financial security of Canadians is central to our mission and values.
- The CIA’s strength and impact come not only from the effectiveness of each core function but from how well our efforts are aligned and coordinated to support Canadian actuaries in addressing key transversal challenges and evolving areas, such as climate and nature risks, predictive analytics and demographic changes.
- Qualification and standard setting are fundamental to our mission, but our impact in serving the public interest is strengthened through a strategic focus on research, professional development, guidance materials, public statements and international relations.
The Board plays a vital role in providing direction in line with the CIA’s strategic plan and in coordinating efforts across various councils and committees to achieve maximum impact. This provides great opportunities for further member engagement.
Lastly, a key priority for the Board in 2025 and subsequent years will be the selection and appointment of a new Executive Director, ensuring a smooth transition from Michel Simard to his successor.