The Institute is pleased to welcome Alicia Rollo, CHRL, as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2025. A seasoned association leader with more than 20 years of management experience, Alicia brings a bold vision for the actuarial profession in Canada and a deep understanding of the Institute’s mission and operations.
Over the past 15 years, Alicia has held several key leadership roles within the CIA, steadily evolving from a focus on education and professional development to overseeing membership, ultimately leading the Institute’s work in education and international affairs. Most recently, she served as Director, Education and International Affairs, where she played a central role in transforming the CIA’s qualification and education systems and enhancing the CIA’s international strategy.
Her work has touched several corners of the Institute to help shape the CIA into a modern, member-focused and globally respected organization. At every step, she has brought visionary thinking, collaborative leadership and a powerful commitment to advancing the public interest through the actuarial profession.
Key contributions to the Institute and profession
Alicia’s leadership style is grounded in collaboration, rigour and compassion, and she is widely respected for her ability to bring people together to achieve big goals. Throughout her career with the Institute, Alicia led several important initiatives, including:
- 2010: Designing and implementing the university accreditation program for actuarial education in Canada (a vision first contemplated by the Institute in the 1970s).
- 2012: Establishing a lasting strategic partnership with the Actuarial Students National Association, thereby positioning the Institute as the lifelong professional partner for aspiring actuaries in Canada.
- 2015: Creating the CIA’s first education syllabus, solidifying its authority over actuarial qualification in Canada, and simultaneously helped deliver the Institute’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
- 2020: Transitioning all CIA meetings and education and professional development programs online during the COVID-19 pandemic, while maintaining business continuity and minimizing financial impacts.
- 2022: Spearheading the CIA’s standalone education system, launching a new era of independence, innovation and brand recognition for the Institute.
- 2024: Developing a strategic framework to assess and respond to emerging topics such as artificial intelligence, climate change and predictive analytics.
Building on a solid foundation to shape what’s next
Alicia sees the Institute’s future as one of both influence and inclusion, built on a solid foundation of professionalism and public trust.
“The CIA has matured and is now fully accountable for all aspects of its mandate. That foundation allows us to realize the Institute’s potential as the actuarial organization of choice in Canada, and a globally respected model of excellence.”
Known for her strong connection to the Institute, Alicia is quick to celebrate the impact CIA members have had on the profession and on public well-being – it’s common to see her sharing well wishes on LinkedIn. She often speaks of the pride she feels in supporting an outstanding community of actuaries, renowned in Canada and around the world for their contribution to the profession and society.
Leading with heart and purpose
Alicia’s 15-year journey with the Institute has shaped both the organization and her personally. Beyond influencing the Canadian actuarial profession, her work has deepened her connection to its people and purpose.
“Choosing to take this role with the CIA was the best move of my life. The passion and energy I’ve developed for advancing the profession and the careers of individual actuaries is stronger than ever.”
As she begins this new chapter, Alicia’s blend of experience, dedication and perspective positions the Institute to continue strengthening the profession, supporting members and delivering lasting value to the public.
