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Actuaries play a crucial role in guiding MetLife's business forward – helping people prepare for the future and navigate some of life’s best and toughest moments. In this series, we’re spotlighting the people behind the profession: sharing their career journeys, insights, and what makes MetLife a place where actuaries can grow, lead, and thrive.
In April, we heard from Erica, who spoke about the joy of solving complex problems – and the deeper reward of helping others grow and seeing their work come to life – and Clarence, who reflected on her path from intern to Director and the value of mentorship along the way.
Today, we’re taking this series global to shine a light on Neha Sachdeva, a Director on the US GAAP Valuation team. Based in India and supporting the EMEA region, Neha is part of the MetLife Global Capability Center (MGCC), which supports our core insurance operations, technology services, and more around the world. Her team’s work helps ensure MetLife’s financial strength – evaluating new products, ensuring reserves are sufficient, and providing insights that shape business decisions.
Meet Neha, Director, Actuarial Services
"There’s an old saying I believe is absolutely true: An actuary who is only an actuary is not really an actuary.”
For Neha, actuarial work goes far beyond the numbers. On her team, it means thinking strategically, adapting to change, and communicating clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences – all while upholding high ethical standards.
Finding her path – and her purpose
Neha’s journey into actuarial science began as she explored career paths after graduation – and one line stuck with her:
“The tagline I saw back then was ‘making financial sense of the future.’ That resonated with me.”
She was drawn to the analytical nature of the work and how actuaries use data and models to help companies make informed, future-focused decisions.
“This profession not only helps businesses navigate uncertainties, but also ensures they can offer secure, dependable services to their clients.”
For Neha, that sense of purpose – helping others find financial confidence – has kept her excited about the work every day since.
“Actuarial work is integral to helping businesses achieve their goals and support their customers in meaningful ways. This aspect of the actuarial profession is what convinced me of its importance and potential impact on both businesses and their customers.”
What it’s like on her team
On the US GAAP Valuation team, Neha and her colleagues are responsible for helping MetLife maintain financial stability under regulatory guidelines. Their work includes analyzing reserves, evaluating new products, and delivering insights that influence the company’s future.
But their impact is about more than just precision.
“Overall, being an actuary on our team means being part of a group that is dedicated to making a positive impact. We go beyond technical work. We bring strategic thinking, adaptability, and strong communication, while ensuring our work is not only accurate, but also fair and responsible.”
The team’s approach blends actuarial expertise with a mindset of thoughtful strategy and integrity. That mix helps ensure MetLife can continue delivering on its promises – both to the business and its customers globally.
Neha with the US GAAP Valuation team during their first team outing in early 2024, shortly after stepping into her new role.
A career milestone that made an impact
Before joining her current team, Neha led MetLife's Solvency II team for the EMEA region – a role that taught her the power of resilience and cross-cultural collaboration, especially during the early days of the global pandemic.
“Uniting diverse teams and ensuring they worked towards common goals involved coordinating tasks, deadlines, and fostering camaraderie. We built a strong team that improved processes and built trust with non-actuarial teams.”
The team even earned MetLife's “Above and Beyond” award – a Global Technology recognition for their collective efforts during a tough time – a moment that continues to shape Neha’s leadership and outlook today.
“This experience taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and collaboration. It showed that a dedicated and united team can achieve exceptional results even in challenging times. The relationships and process improvements continue to benefit the organization, and I'm proud to have been part of such a successful effort.”
What sets MetLife apart for actuaries
When asked what’s unique about being an actuary at MetLife, Neha points to three things: career mobility, culture, and innovation.
“MetLife encourages you to explore different paths within the organization – you have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects across departments. This not only broadens your skill set but also keeps the work dynamic and engaging.”
It’s this variety – and the support to grow – that makes a difference. Neha says MetLife creates an environment where collaboration and growth go hand in hand.
“Teamwork and continuous learning are highly valued here. Leadership is approachable and genuinely invested in your growth, and this creates a positive atmosphere where you’re empowered to take on new challenges and contribute your ideas.”
That support extends beyond the work itself. MetLife’s flexible culture is another reason Neha feels she can bring her best self to work.
“MetLife also understands the importance of a healthy balance between work and personal life, and offers flexible working arrangements. This flexibility helps reduce stress and allows you to perform at your best.”
And with a strong focus on future-forward thinking, there’s always room to keep learning.
“Additionally, MetLife is committed to staying at the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements. You have access to cutting-edge tools and resources and this focus on innovation ensures that you are always learning and growing in your role.”
Neha’s story offers a glimpse into just how meaningful a career at MetLife can be – especially when it's guided by purpose, support, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact.
Curious to learn more about actuarial roles at MetLife? Check out our open positions or join our talent community to stay up to date on the latest.
