Iris Lun, co-founder of insurance comparison platform 10Life, has been named actuary of the year by the profession’s peak body.

Actuaries Institute CEO Elayne Grace says Ms Lun’s work has transformed insurance transparency across the Asia-Pacific region, and 10Life is renowned for advocating for fair practices and exposing industry issues.

“Iris Lun exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking that defines the modern actuarial profession,” Ms Grace said. “Her commitment to leveraging actuarial and data science for social good and her leadership in the insurtech space make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.”

Ms Lun, who splits her time between Melbourne and Hong Kong, has served as a member of the institute’s international committee, institute board, Asia subcommittee and China taskforce.  

Actuaries Institute president Win-Li Toh says she is a “worthy recipient of this award” for her transformational use of insurtech, award-winning public advocacy and mentoring of actuarial leaders across Asia-Pacific.

Ms Lun says 10Life’s success shows how actuaries can improve people’s lives with better information to make crucial financial decisions.

“I hope this recognition inspires other actuaries to explore how they can use their skills to drive positive change in emerging industries,” she said.  

“I am deeply humbled and honoured ... Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by the belief that actuaries have a unique responsibility to make financial services more transparent and accessible for everyone.”

Ms Lun started her actuarial career in Australia before joining Tillinghast in Hong Kong. She later worked at ING Life and Prudential Asia before creating the insurtech 10Life.  

She has worked in Melbourne, Tokyo, Amsterdam and Taipei, and contributed to projects in Thailand and Malaysia.