Meet the Candidates - Isaac Espinoza

FCAS - May 2007
ACAS - May 2006



Candidate Information

Biographical Informational

Education:
B.S. Computer Science, University of California, Riverside. Magna Cum Laude (High Honors)

Current Employment:
CEO, Kettle

CAS Activities and Publications:
Reinsurance Meeting (CARe) Committee (2012-Present)
Reinsurance Research Committee (2012-2015)
Spring Meeting Committee (2020-Present)
Annual Meeting Committee (2020-Present)

Other Actuarial Organizations:
Member of American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA), 2015-Present

Other Professional Designations:
Fellow, Society of Actuaries

Additional Biographical Information

Employment History - Prior Employers:

Root – SVP, Strategy & Reinsurance, 2020-2024

Greenlight Reinsurance – Senior Principal, 2007-2020

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company – Senior Actuarial Analyst, 2004-2007

Why do you want to serve on the CAS Board of Directors?

I am deeply honored to be nominated as a candidate for the CAS Board of Directors. I have been in the industry for 22 years and have been a member of the CAS for 19 of those years. Throughout my career, I have worked in insurance, reinsurance, and insurtech, in locations both in the U.S. as well as internationally. Most recently, my current role is as the CEO of a tech-enabled MGA focused on insuring properties in wildfire-exposed areas. 

My commitment to our society runs deep. Over the years, I've actively engaged in mentoring actuaries, speaking on industry panels, and supporting actuarial education. Currently, I volunteer on three CAS conference committees, the Spring, Annual, and Reinsurance meetings, where I have planned, presented, and/or moderated dozens of sessions.

My background of experience spans actuarial, underwriting, strategy, and executive leadership, giving me a broad perspective on both traditional and non-traditional actuarial roles.  I believe I would benefit the CAS Board of Directors through my combination of leadership, strategic vision, and actuarial expertise. 

I am incredibly bullish on actuaries being leaders of risk and insurance organizations. I believe the training, rigor, and intellect of our talented members position us perfectly to have increasingly influential positioning and be at the forefront of addressing new industry opportunities. One initiative I would champion is to provide more education, support, and training around the soft skills and mindset needed for a successful path to executive leadership as well as thriving in non-traditional roles. This would allow our community to have an increased impact and influence on the industry. Additionally, I would like to ensure that our curriculum of accreditation and continuing education align with technological advancements and industry trends to effectively position our members. 

If elected, I will dedicate myself to advancing the CAS's strategic goals, ensuring we remain responsive to the needs of our growing global membership while strengthening our brand as the leading authority in actuarial science. Thank you for your time and consideration. I welcome the opportunity to serve and would appreciate your vote.

Connect with me on LinkedIn.

Candidate Issue(s) Identification and Discussion

Issue: Building and sustaining a robust pool of talented individuals for the CAS.

Discussion: Strategies to achieve this include reducing financial obstacles, fostering global participation, enhancing visibility and access in underrepresented areas, and emphasizing the profession’s resilience during economic fluctuations.

Issue: Ensuring CAS education is applicable, current, and effectively delivered. This includes a combination of technical skills and soft skills.

Discussion: It is important to consider the evolving needs of the profession and ensure that candidates and members are equipped with the skills needed for the future. This includes incorporating training in emerging technologies like AI and machine learning, emphasizing the importance of business acumen and leadership skills, and providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. This also supports the possibility of career expansion into non-traditional or leadership roles.

Issue: Strengthening CAS credentials globally and maintaining leadership in quantitative and risk sciences.

Discussion: With the increasing globalization of the economy and insurance sector, the CAS can demonstrate leadership by offering strong ethical standards and technical expertise. This necessitates greater international presence, engagement, and membership growth.