Rising Star Frederique Wagener

The Fidelis Insurance Group investment reporting manager said the re/insurance industry found him, not the other way around. 

Frederique Wagner started his career as an auditor before joining Fidelis where he is an investment reporting manager. 

Give us a snapshot of your career to date.

I currently serve as the Investment Reporting Manager at Fidelis Insurance Group, having joined the company in 2019 as a consultant in Bermuda. Originally from South Africa, I spent five years in audit and tax before working in a finance role for a company with operations across Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. I am a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants and the Chartered Professional Accountants of Bermuda, having qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2019.

How did you come to choose a career in re/insurance?

I believe the career found me. Personally, working in an ever-changing environment like the re/insurance industry has made for a career that is both challenging and intellectually stimulating at the same time. And while dynamic, the industry still provides a stable career with opportunities for long-term growth.

What makes the re/insurance industry attractive to young professionals?

I believe the diverse nature of the re/insurance industry and the opportunities that it offers makes it one of the most attractive industries amongst professionals. The industry is inherently global and deals with real-world situations, which allows individuals to make a meaningful impact at their company and within the industry. The industry is also challenging due to its complex nature; however, this complexity makes a career in re/insurance a rewarding one and allows for innovation.

What are the opportunities and challenges you’ve faced?

The opportunities that I’ve been granted arose from taking calculated risks at the right time, having confidence, and believing in myself. My career in the re/insurance industry has allowed me to network with a diverse group of professionals, attend events, and travel, which have all enriched my personal life and helped me create lasting relationships. Pursuing the Chartered Financial Analyst designation is a challenge which requires dedication and a great deal of consistent hard work.     

Challenges presented themselves in the sacrifices I made to achieve academic success, going outside your comfort zone, and later, to achieve a healthy work-life balance However, these opportunities still exceed the challenges by quite a margin.

Was there someone who inspired you or acted as a mentor in your career?

Rather than a specific individual, I believe all the groups of people that you cross paths with inspire you throughout your life. For me, being able to take the best attributes from those specific people has allowed me to develop a well-balanced, diverse outlook on life and kept me motivated in the relentless pursuit of excellence. 

What differences does your generation bring to the industry?

Adaptability to change and digital proficiency. I believe our generation has experienced a lot of change growing up – just look at the exponential growth in technology over the past 20 years and the impact it has had on our daily lives. Our unmatched access to information and ability to utilise this knowledge has allowed us to thrive in the current era. I also believe that our generation looks further than the pay cheque as we strive for meaning and purpose in our work.

Is the industry welcoming to younger people?

The re/insurance industry is at the forefront of technological innovation, which is appealing to young talent, especially as the next generation continues to search for dynamic jobs where they’re able to explore new possibilities. The industry is also extremely diverse, which allows individuals to find a niche that suits their unique interests and skills. [There is also a tremendous amount of growth opportunities. For example, Fidelis encourages innovation, autonomy, and self-direction as employees grow within the organisation and learn what type of work is most meaningful for them.]

What are your career goals?

I have a deep-rooted commitment to personal and professional growth, which for me includes working towards the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Peering into the future, I envision myself continuing to be a key member of staff and making a profound impact at Fidelis Insurance Group.

I would also like to keep building on the extensive networking opportunities the re/insurance industry offers and continue to develop my understanding of the industry and how it will evolve in the future, beyond just finance and investments.

If you had chosen a different career, what would it have been?

A career as a medical doctor. I believe being a doctor must be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Medicine is also a field that is constantly evolving and advancing, with endless opportunities for learning and intellectual growth.

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