Climbing the ladder

[SirVLCIV]

This theoretical question makes a lot of assumptions, but I've heard from several sources (including the government: [url]http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos041.htm[/url] ) that actuaries, upon a certain level of experience, ability, etc., can rise to management/executive positions. Is there anything in particular that would make one a candidate for such advancement, and how long would such a leap take, given a top candidate (ability, leadership, vision, etc.)?

Also, would any such candidate require extra education, such as an MBA?

[Trojan_Horse]

I've spoken with a few of the executives at my company that are also actuaries about this topic. Having an MBA certainly helps but is not critical. Important qualities include: Public Speaking skills (presentation skills), relationship building skills (people skills), and an ability to see past the numbers (in other words, to approach scenarios in both an analytical sense and a practical sense). The time it takes to reach an executive position varies greatly and depends on timing, whether you are ready when they need someone. Good luck.