Guido Berendes has been with Deutsche Rück since 1995 and is a mathematician in the actuarial office. Before that, he had a completely linear career path: school-leaving examination for university entry (Abitur), mathematics studies, minoring in informatics, then joining Deutsche Rück. Here, he is responsible for deriving bases for actuarial calculations, developing rates and programming rating software, since Deutsche Rück develops all its rating programs itself. Especially in the case of life-insurance rates, flexible adjustment is important. This is because, as life expectancy grows, a fundamental parameter in the bases for calculations changes. Also, amendments to statute law create ever-changing requirements. So this is a paradise, as it were, for mathematicians and information scientists, particularly when their tasks are embedded in the open corporate culture of a clearly organised company where flat hierarchies and short routes ensure that decisions are taken quickly when they are needed. Personal initiative is called for, demanded – and supported.

In this way, Berendes was also given an opportunity from the word go to develop and implement his own ideas. This freedom to shape events and the confidence placed in him are merits he greatly appreciates. After all, being departmental head today places not only professional demands on him, but personal demands as well. Still, the HR department actively supports him and enables him to take a personal look at his future prospects, too. And he knows a thing or two about taking a look at the future.

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