LDC Top 50 2025
Brendan Doherty
Founder and CEO
Intellica
Qualified actuary, Brendan Doherty, founded Intellica in 2014 to revolutionise pension data management. In 2020, he accelerated growth by assembling a permanent team, establishing a board and launching Constellation, proprietary software that enables real-time data analysis within clients’ networks.
Intellica has since acquired Cosan Consulting and been named one of The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work in 2024 and 2025. The 85-strong company trains graduates to become actuaries and is expanding into the insurance de-risking market. “Fatherhood reshaped my priorities. My focus is on guiding with integrity, living with balance, and leaving a legacy of kindness, strength, and opportunity.”
Fatherhood reshaped my priorities. My focus is on guiding with integrity, living with balance, and leaving a legacy of kindness, strength, and opportunity.”
Q&A
What led you to actuarial science?
My parents instilled a strong work ethic: whatever you do, do it well and to the best of your abilities. I excelled at maths but didn’t fancy the usual law or accountancy route. I chose actuarial and financial studies at university in Dublin, qualifying while delivering high-profile programs of work at Equiniti. Balancing both was tough, but my determination to succeed kept me going.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I live by the motto: ‘Be impeccable with your word’ – if you say you’ll do something, do it. I have an open-door policy and always make time for anyone who’s struggling. You’ll never hear me say, “I’m too busy.” I host regular coffee-and-connect sessions with new starters and take real pride in helping people grow. We’ve built a training hub to guide graduates through actuarial exams – among the toughest qualifications – and I’d love to extend it to school leavers in the future.
What’s your approach to client relationships?
Our clients include Capita, EY, XPS and Aptia, and we’re proud of those long-standing partnerships. My mantra is simple: never chase new business at the expense of existing clients. Deliver high-quality service, and they’ll stay.
