Erika Schurr, FCIA(2008)
Position: Director candidate
Province: Ontario
Primary Practice Area: P&C insurance
Position statement
It would be an honour to continue my contribution to the actuarial profession by serving as a Director for the CIA Board. With a steadfast commitment to advancing our profession and a demonstrable record of leadership and dedication, I am poised to effectively serve the Institute and its members.
Having recently completed a three-year term on the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) Board of Directors, I leveraged my extensive experience as a Chief Actuary and Senior Executive to influence and execute the strategic vision of the CAS. This experience underscored the importance of an active board of directors that can aptly represent the views of members. Transparency and accountability are very important in governance, and I am dedicated to fostering open communication, soliciting feedback from members and ensuring the Institute operates with the utmost integrity.
With more than 20 years of experience in the actuarial profession, I bring a wealth of knowledge and insights to the table. My active engagement in industry issues has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of actuaries within and beyond the insurance sector. Actuaries should lead discussions on emerging topics such as artificial intelligence, climate, risk mitigation, and inflation, and I am committed to assisting the CIA in building a resilient and forward-thinking professional society.
I strongly believe in volunteerism, demonstrated through my service on various committees such as the CAS Exam 6C Committee, involvement in exam proctoring, and membership in several influential industry committees including the CIA Committee on Property and Casualty Insurance Financial Reporting, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) Natural Catastrophe and Climate Standing Committee, and the Property and Casualty Insurance Compensation Corporation Actuarial Advisory Group. Additionally, I have held executive roles in organizations such as the Ontario Conference of Casualty Actuaries, contributed to committees such as the Facility Association Actuarial Committee, and chaired the IBC Canadian Loss Experience Automobile Rating Committee.
Deeply passionate about the actuarial profession, if elected, I will tirelessly work to advance the interests of our members, champion excellence in actuarial practice, and uphold the values and principles of our profession.
Thank you for considering my nomination. I respectfully seek your support and vote in the upcoming election. Together, I believe we can build a stronger, more vibrant future for the Canadian Institute of Actuaries.
2023-Present – Climate Change and Sustainability Steering Committee
2020-Present – Committee on CIA Participation to the International Actuarial Association
2018-Present – Exam 6-C Syllabus Committee
2017-Present – Property and Casualty Insurance Financial Reporting Committee
- 2017-Present – Member
- 2021-Present – Fall Letter Subcommittee
- 2020-22 – PAA Eligibility Subcommittee
- 2017-22 – Discounting Subcommittee
2023 – OSFI Climate Scenario Exercise – Advice Statement Drafting Entity
2018-20 – Actuarial Guidance Council Designated Group – Development of an Educational Note on P&C Insurance Trends
2016-18 – Committee on Education – Exam 6 Canada Syllabus Subcommittee
2011-20 – Property & Casualty Practice Committee
- 2017-20 – Member
- 2012-17 – Chair
- 2011-12 – Vice-Chair
2014-16 – CIA Exam 6 Canada Syllabus Committee
In addition to my passion for the actuarial profession, I am deeply committed to advocating for inclusive working environments and attracting a diverse range of candidates not only to the profession but also to the insurance industry as a whole. Over the past three months, I have actively participated on panels organized by the Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals, the Insurance Institute of Canada, and the Network of Actuarial Women and Allies. Furthermore, I serve as Executive Co-Chair of the Women in Analytics + Allies professional development group at Travelers. Our mission is to elevate the influence of analytical women at Travelers by fostering a supportive culture and facilitating individual development, thereby enabling a positive business impact. I believe that fostering diversity and inclusion is not only essential for the success of our profession but also for the broader insurance industry’s ability to innovate and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Question: What do you think of the effectiveness and importance of the CIA in its core functions (e.g., qualification, continuing education, professional development, promotion of the profession, research, standard-setting and professional conduct)?
Answer: The Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA) serves as a cornerstone in the development and advancement of the actuarial profession within Canada. The CIA’s adherence to stringent standards not only distinguishes actuaries from other professions, such as data science, but also upholds the integrity and trustworthiness of our profession’s judgment.
Moreover, the CIA’s commitment to continuing education and professional development equips actuaries to navigate the complexities of an evolving landscape. In a world characterized by rapid change, the CIA ensures that its members remain at the forefront of innovation and expertise. Additionally, the Institute’s dedication to standard-setting fosters a culture of excellence and accountability within the profession, further solidifying its credibility and relevance.
Overall, the CIA’s effectiveness in fulfilling its core functions is instrumental in fostering the growth and sustainability of the actuarial profession in Canada. As we continue to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities, the Institute plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our profession.