First Actuarial has announced four new associate partners within the firm. Ross Bennett, Lee French, Aaron Love and David Parfett take on the position amid a period of consistent growth for the firm.
The role of associate partner did not exist at First Actuarial until 2024. Then, an original cohort of 14 colleagues was chosen to recognise exceptional talent and foster retention amid ongoing business growth. The four new associate partners continue this, across some of the firm’s key growth areas.
David Joy, managing partner at First Actuarial, commented, “We’ve reported bumper growth for several years now, and this has only been possible with the superb team we have here. It’s great to be able to recognise four more brilliant individuals by making them associate partners.”
Lee French is a pension and benefits specialist with over 35 years of experience. As associate partner, he draws on knowhow from spells with Corinthian Benefits, JLT and Alexander Forbes Consultants & Actuaries.
Aaron Love is a scheme actuary with over 14 years of experience of helping trustees and sponsoring employers of defined benefit pension schemes. He has previously supported schemes ranging in size from £1 million to £1 billion, and has been with the firm since 2010.
David Parfett is a defined contributions expert with more than 30 years of working experience. He joined First Actuarial after time with Mercer, Aon and Benefex, among other firms.
Ross Bennett wins promotion having arrived at the firm in 2019, as a trainee actuary. In the years since, Bennett has also completed training as an investment consultant.
The four associate partners will head the newly formed employee benefits arm – encompassing defined contribution pensions, group protection and healthcare insurance services. The offering has proven to be a highly successful and strategic business diversification, according to the company. Meanwhile, the investment team has grown its core investment consultancy services while developing areas such as fiduciary manager oversight and charity endowments.
Joy concluded, “Colleagues are happy to see career progression for others, as it shows them a route for their own development. They see hard work and achievement being rewarded, and hopefully that motivates them as well.”