Head of Strategy and Innovation: Santam Broker Solutions

Sanlam; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 120 000 - 180 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance provider based in Johannesburg is looking for a Head of Strategy and Innovation. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing the company's strategy, conducting market analysis, and driving strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a relevant postgraduate degree and over 10 years of industry experience, particularly in Short Term Insurance. Join a diverse team committed to shaping the future of insurance.

Qualifications

• 10 years industry experience with over 5 years in Short Term Insurance as a Broker.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategy for Santam Broker Solutions.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis.
• Drive strategic initiatives from business case approval to implementation.
• Advise and deliver technology-led transformation programs.

Skills

Strong relationship skills

Analytical skills

Strategic skills

Education

Relevant post graduate degree

Senior / Executive Development programs

Job description

What will you do?

This career opportunity is available at Santam Broker Solutions for the Head of Strategy and Innovation, who will be based in Johannesburg.

Santam Broker Solutions conduct short-term insurance business across personal, commercial and mid-market corporate business, distributed through independent brokers across South Africa and Namibia. The business consists of a distribution force in field, three servicing channels i.e. contact centers, online business and outsourced business, underwriting and other support services. The successful individual with drive the development and implementation of Santam Broker Solutions (SBS) strategy as main responsibility.

What will make you successful in this role?

• Think strategy in the 1 to 3 years’ time window. Consider the distribution business, identify trends / opportunities / threats that SBS need to take on board and develop plans for.
• Conduct research and conversations with all stakeholders to arrive at a collective view of the issues at hand and the potential approaches, the development of the strategy, and first level tactics to address and executing on this, in collaboration with the rest of the business. Transformational initiatives are handed off only once we are comfortable that they are materially business as usual.
• Drive Strategic Initiatives portfolio from business case approval to implementation. Retain ownership of the strategic initiative, where the matter has high probability for multi-year evolution as well.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis through engagements in the field with our people, brokers and industry bodies etc.
• Assist with translating research and strategic planning for not just Santam Broker Solutions, but for the broader Santam intermediated business, and landing the messages where necessary / appropriate.
• Involvement in tactical initiatives currently underway to assist with redirection, rethinking and requiring broad and deep understanding of the entire business. This also translates into picking up critical strategic priority duties where required in the business.
• For the strategic priorities’ portfolio, play the business / Agile Product Manager role.
• Following from broker / intermediary background and experience, help in the Broker distribution side of the business to deliver broker enablement strategies.
• Represent SBS CEO and other SBS Executive members where required in Strategic Project Steering Committees, industry forums etc.
• Direct and plan digital & AI transformation strategy that is fit for purpose across the various channels of Broker Solutions
• Advise; shape and deliver technology led transformation programs.
• Adopt a prioritization approach to develop a roadmap for innovation with the relevant processes, tools and metrics to support business objectives and new growth opportunities.

Qualification and Experience

• Relevant post graduate degree or similar
• Senior / Executive Development programs
• 10 years industry experience. More than 5 years experience in Short Term Insurance as a Broker

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong relationship skills and engagement experience at group Exco / Board level
• Strong analytical and strategic skills

Core Competencies

Collaborates - Contributing independently. Being resilient - Contributing independently. Drives results - Contributing independently. Cultivates innovation - Contributing independently. Customer focus - Contributing independently.

About The Company

Santam is the market leader in the general insurance industry in Southern Africa. As a large, diversified, and expanding company, we are committed to transformation and growth. While our headquarters are in South Africa, we are rapidly extending our presence into emerging markets across Africa and Asia.

With a client base of over 1 million policyholders, Santam serves individuals, commercial enterprises, specialist business owners, and institutions, including 80 of the Top 100 companies listed on the JSE. Our commitment to Insurance, Good and Proper goes beyond just providing cover—we offer peace of mind, ensuring our clients can focus on living in the moment, not worrying about the unexpected. Because at Santam, we believe the freedom to seize every day is worth protecting.

People drive our business, and we are committed to attracting the best talent, whether for permanent roles or short-term opportunities.

Santam is committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities. We are dedicated to neuro-inclusivity and fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive.

Take the next step in your career—apply now and be part of a company that’s shaping the future of insurance. This is Freedom!