A secondment is when someone changes job role within a company for a short time, or agrees to transfer to a different company for a period of time. Secondments can occur within private and public sectors, and even to the third sector. Secondments will usually last somewhere between three months and two years, although each one is unique.
Secondments can range from management staff going to other companies to offer management tuition, to technical staff being moved around to fulfil promised work plans. Secondments for actuaries are very similar, and offer employees the opportunity to work in a slightly different sector.
Secondments usually benefit everyone, from the employer and employee to the host company or organisation. Secondments are a good way of exploring new career possibilities, and are a great way for bosses to offer professional development, particularly when promotions are few and far between.
Sometimes secondments are given different names, such as professional placements. They represent an excellent opportunity for actuaries to experience slightly different financial industries. Secondees will often acquire useful transferable skills as well as knowledge of a different sector. The time spent away from their employer can be really valuable upon their return, thanks to a broader view of an industry. Sending an employee out on secondment could even return some new business ideas.
Secondments are a good way for employees to prove to their employers that they are flexible, enthusiastic and able to adapt quickly to a new job. These skills are desirable for employers, and can help those who take secondments to build a powerful and impressive CV.
Because employees who take secondments inevitably return to work and spread their new knowledge and skills around the organisation, secondments are great for businesses. Having an employee on secondment can enhance a business, and a seconded employee with a fresh take on the business may identify new profitable activities. Secondments also help businesses build networks of contacts who may come in useful later, be it for providing work, outsourcing work or simple tuition or guidance.
If you an actuary and secondment appeals to you, why not take the opportunity to work outside your current job role and take a secondment which can assist your career development. Talk to your line manager, and see if there are any good secondments or placements available in relevant businesses. Secondments are an excellent way to pick up new skills and spice up your career.
Author Resource:
John McE writes on behalf of the Pensions Regulator , which is the UK regulator of work-based pension schemes .