About the Role

An exciting opportunity exists for an experienced and strategic Head of Motor Claims to lead and manage the Motor Claims portfolio across own damage and third-party liability claims. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, technical decision-making, cost control, supplier management, and team performance while ensuring compliance with regulatory and business requirements.

The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering efficient, sustainable, and customer-focused claims outcomes while contributing to the broader claims strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Portfolio Leadership & Operational Performance

·        Lead the Motor Claims function across own damage and third-party liability claims.

·        Oversee workflow, service levels, and claims turnaround times.

·        Drive accountability and operational efficiency across the team.

·        Ensure consistent claims outcomes aligned with service standards.

Financial Management & Cost Control

·        Manage motor claims spend and procurement costs.

·        Monitor cost drivers and implement cost containment initiatives.

·        Oversee service provider performance and cost efficiency.

·        Reduce claims leakage and improve overall claims profitability.

Technical Oversight

·        Provide guidance on complex and escalated claims.

·        Ensure accurate application of policy wording, endorsements, rating principles, and SASRIA requirements.

·        Promote consistency and technical excellence across the claims function.

·        Support alignment between underwriting, product, and claims practices.

Compliance & Governance

·        Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and internal controls.

·        Maintain audit readiness and quality standards.

·        Identify and mitigate operational risks.

·        Strengthen governance practices across the portfolio.

Stakeholder & Supplier Management

·        Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, clients, and service providers.

·        Manage escalated complaints, disputes, and appeals.

·        Oversee supplier performance, turnaround times, and procurement efficiencies.

Leadership & Capability Development

·        Lead, coach, and develop the motor claims team.

·        Drive performance and accountability.

·        Identify training and development needs.

·        Foster a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement.

Strategic & Operational Improvement

·        Analyse trends and performance data.

·        Identify opportunities to improve processes and efficiencies.

·        Contribute to claims strategy and broader business objectives.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

·        Grade 12 (Matric).

·        Degree in Business, Insurance, or a related field.

·        Short-term insurance qualification will be advantageous.

Experience

·        Proven management experience within claims or insurance operations.

·        Extensive experience in motor claims, including own damage and third-party liability claims.

·        Strong understanding of motor claims processes and products.

·        Knowledge of policy wording, endorsements, rating principles, and SASRIA.

·        Knowledge of FAIS, Fit and Proper requirements, and the Short-Term Insurance Act will be advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

·        Strong leadership and people management capabilities.

·        Sound financial acumen with a focus on cost control.

·        Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

·        Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills.

·        Proficiency in MS Office and insurance systems.

·        Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

·        Competence in using AI tools such as Copilot and ChatGPT for research, drafting, and administrative support.