Actuarial Graduate Opportunities 2026 in Basingstoke

First Actuarial has been around since 2004, when a small group of like-minded actuaries came together to bring fresh thinking to pensions consultancy. More than two decades later, our strong growth path has continued year on year, and we now employ over 500 people across seven locations.

First Actuarial is owned by Gallagher, one of the world’s leading insurance brokers, risk management and consulting firms. First Actuarial forms part of Gallagher’s UK Benefits & HR Consulting division (GBS UK). GBS UK is a leading provider in the pensions consultancy market, offering a full end-to-end retirement proposition, including actuarial and investment consulting, risk transfer, pensions administration and retirement communications. With experts positioned across all regions, we support pension schemes of all sizes across the full range of solutions.

First Actuarial operates nationally with more than 550 colleagues across seven UK offices. Our focus is on delivering high-quality advice and service at a fair and transparent level of fees. As we develop our business, opportunities for our people grow. Our Basingstoke, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Peterborough, Tonbridge, and London offices provide supportive work environments where everyone can make a difference. We enjoy work and celebrate our successes. And we provide support and helpful feedback, so we all learn and improve.

We love numbers, but we love people more. Staff wellbeing and work-life balance have always been core values. Beyond the firm, we’re known for our integrity. We’re happy to challenge conventional thinking and speak up. Our pioneering work is set to transform the lives of millions of younger people with a new type of pension.

Following a very successful summer internship programme, which allowed us to fill most of our graduate roles, we now invite applications for our remaining opening in Basingstoke. All our graduates are welcomed into a stimulating work environment, working with professionals from diverse backgrounds in friendly and close-knit teams.

What do actuaries do? Actuaries use numeracy skills to help pension scheme trustees and employers manage their pension schemes. We grapple with huge uncertainties like inflation and manage the risks that can damage people’s lives.

What will I be doing on a day-to-day basis? Although it sounds like a cliché, no two days will be the same. As an actuarial student, you’ll be working with a range of clients – both for-profit and not-for-profit – on actuarial calculations, models and client communications.

How will First Actuarial support my career progression? As a new graduate, you’ll join our training programme to build up essential skills and knowledge. We provide an excellent study support package – including IFoA membership fees, study materials and study leave – to help you qualify as an actuary.

Who are we looking for? We’re looking for individuals with first-rate numerical skills and a strong academic performance. You should have at least a predicted 2:1 undergraduate degree in any discipline, as well as the following skills:

• Communication – A flair for communication, able to express complicated ideas clearly and to evolve your communication style as you get to know clients.
• Strength of character – A can-do approach to problem-solving, and relationship-building skills with colleagues and clients.
• Self-discipline – Determination and motivation to combine full-time work and study.
• Problem solving – An agile mind able to consider challenges from different angles.

What we offer you: A competitive remuneration package, private health insurance, life insurance and income protection insurance, 25 days annual leave as standard, 7% Employer pension contribution, full training and study support. All graduates are office-based for the first few months; thereafter, for colleagues who prefer homeworking for part of the week, we have hybrid working in place. We’re also flexible on working day arrangements and will happily accommodate a range of personal commitments from day one.

Our straightforward approach to recruitment involves role-specific tests as well as interviews and a short presentation, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants. Should you require information in a different format, have other accessibility or reasonable adjustment requirements, or if you have any problems not listed on this page, please contact HRHelpdesk@firstactuarial.co.uk.

Please note that these roles can’t be offered as fully remote positions and we can’t provide any Visa sponsorship at this time; therefore, we unfortunately can’t consider applicants on Student, Dependant or Graduate visas. We are recruiting on a rolling basis and encourage early applications. This opening may be closed early should the position be filled.