If there was one person who was the epitome of the title “manager”, it would be Marlon V. Mendoza. In fact, even after his promotion to Valuation Actuary, his colleagues and staff still fondly call him “Manager”.

Being a natural leader, it didn’t take Marlon long to work his way to the top after getting a job as an Actuarial Analyst in Sun Life Philippines. He became a valuation manager at age 25, a feat not usually accomplished by his peers. By this time, he had had significant experience in Pricing and Agent Servicing, which helped him greatly in his transition to Valuation. Aside from his technical expertise, he shines with his drive to motivate people, focusing on the growth of his employees in both work and exams. His ability to deliver in any situation despite challenges makes him a reliable staff, boss, and colleague.

There are many deliverables and strict deadlines in valuation but Marlon is no stranger to juggling heavy workloads. Back in university, he was chairman of the Academics Committee as well as Internal Vice President of his organization, the Mathematics Majors Circle. Despite his busy schedule, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of the Philippines Diliman, graduating Magna cum laude. No wonder that, even after graduation, he was masterful in time management—successfully dividing his time among his studying for actuarial exams, managing people at work, and spending time with his family and friends.

But no matter how good he was with managing his time, there were still mountains to climb and hurdles to overcome in becoming an Actuary. The journey was not easy, and the job became more demanding. With his eyes on the prize, Marlon persevered and did not let his failures come in the way of obtaining his AASP and FASP in 2012 and 2018, respectively, and his ASA in 2018. At the moment, he is still striving for growth, and is working hard towards becoming a fellow of the Society of Actuaries.

Outside his life as an Actuary, he likes to stay active by running, practicing yoga and playing sports like badminton and bowling. He likes collecting LEGO toys and traveling abroad with friends and families to experience exciting new cultures and food.

If there is one thing he would like to share with aspiring Actuaries, it is that “Exam is not your life”. One should not let their failures define who they are, for failures are just opportunities to begin again. Don’t be afraid to fail, and take those exams—because it will be worth it.