"I am given the opportunity to pioneer"

Eveline Smeets, Head of Actuarial Affairs at Shell Pensioenbureau Nederland.
Lives together with her husband and three children in Huizen.

"After studying econometrics, I ended up in the world of pensions. A field that perhaps is not very dynamic, but is, however, highly interesting for a person involved in beta sciences like me. I enjoy combining my technical insight with my communication skills: explaining complex issues in simple terms so that everyone can understand them. In addition, I also think it is important to be innovative. The pension world consists largely of grey men in pinstripe suits. I try to be a breath of fresh air.

"As Head of Actuarial Affairs I am responsible for the liability side of the balance sheet. I calculate what the expected obligations are, how much money has to be kept in cash for that and the risks we run in doing so. Also, I offer support in all kinds of policy related matters. Currently, I am working on the pension agreement. I have been closely involved in the development of the agreement because I'm a member of all kinds of umbrella consultative groups, and I'm now helping with the implementation within Shell Pension. I really appreciate this opportunity to pioneer.

“As Head of Actuarial Affairs, I am responsible for the liabilities side of the balance sheet"

"Just like all my colleagues, I have been working from home for months now. I miss the personal contact; walking into someone's office for a brief meeting or just for a chat. I also think it is a pity that I'm now spending more time behind my laptop and on the phone. On the other hand, I also see advantages. I see much more of what my children are up to, I don't have any travelling time and I find that virtual meetings are often very efficient. Still, I am looking forward to going back (partly) to the office again. Being on the move and having a lot of variety; that's what makes me happiest of all."