Operational Risk Manager

Stay safe online. Now more than ever, it's important to be cybersafe. See Santam's tips to keep you safe online. Learn more. An operational risk manager position is available within the Santam Claims Solutions: Quality & Knowledge Management (QKM) team, based at our Gauteng Centurion (WestEnd) offices. Reporting to the Head: QKM. WHAT WILL YOU DO? The Operational Risk Manager will collaborate closely with the Claims business to embed risk management practices into daily activities. This role involves identifying, monitoring, and mitigating risks within the claims environment, and ensuring the integration of risk management frameworks, policies, tools, and techniques to improve risk controls. The role also aims to foster a strong risk management culture through active discussions and communication. WHAT WILL MAKE YOU SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE? Risk Management Risk Monitoring and Control Support: Assist the Head: QKM in monitoring the risk profile of Santam Claims Solutions, ensuring key risks are managed effectively, appropriate actions are taken, and controls are in place to mitigate risks. Develop and Implement Risk Strategy: Create and execute a proactive risk strategy aligned with Santam’s overall objectives and risk framework. Evaluate Risk Exposure: Regularly assess risks in claims management, focusing on fraud, compliance, operational, financial, and reputational risks. Risk Assessment and Control Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive risk assessments to evaluate controls within claims processes. Design and Implement Mitigation Plans: Identify high-risk areas and develop targeted mitigation strategies. Monitor and Escalate KRIs: Track key risk indicators and escalate concerns promptly. Foster Risk Culture: Promote risk-aware culture and initiatives within Claims Solutions. Collaboration with Key Stakeholders: Work with ERM, Compliance, and Internal Audit teams to ensure consistent risk practices. Operational Losses Identification and Reporting of Losses: Lead reporting of operational losses and near misses. Analysis and Root Cause Identification: Analyze losses to identify trends and causes. Initiatives to Mitigate Losses: Drive process improvements, technology upgrades, and controls to reduce operational losses. Operational Losses Database Management: Maintain the losses database, tracking corrective actions. Risk Insights and Reporting Provide Risk Insights: Offer insights on claims risk trends, root causes, and scenarios. Develop Dashboards and Reports: Create reports for leadership on risk exposures and mitigation effectiveness. Escalate High-Risk Matters: Escalate significant risks and losses to ERM for organizational action. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE A bachelor's degree in Risk Management, Finance, or related field; postgraduate or professional certification (CRM, PRM, FRM) is advantageous. Minimum of 7+ years in Operational Risk Management, preferably in insurance. Strong understanding of risk frameworks, regulations, and industry best practices. Experience with ERM software (CURA), analytics, and reporting tools. Proven stakeholder engagement skills with senior leadership and cross-functional teams. SKILLS Proficiency in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint Strong presentation, facilitation, and communication skills Analytical, problem-solving, and data evaluation skills Negotiating and influencing abilities Strategic thinking COMPETENCIES ABOUT THE COMPANY Santam leads the general insurance industry in Southern Africa. We are a diverse, expanding, and transforming company, with operations in South Africa and emerging markets in Africa and Asia. Our success is driven by our passion for clients and delivering Insurance Good and Proper. We prioritize people, recruiting both permanent and temporary staff. We are committed to transformation and diversity, aiming for an inclusive workforce that reflects societal demographics. We encourage applications from designated groups in line with employment equity goals. Qualified applicants should submit their cover letter, CV, and salary expectations in MS Word format to santam.co.za. Please share this vacancy with qualified individuals. Our recruitment process Onboarding Ensure all documents are received for payroll processing. Advertise Vacancies are advertised for 3-5 days, depending on skill availability. Screening and Interviews Candidates are shortlisted, screened via phone, and invited for competency-based interviews. Further assessments and second interviews may follow. Final Steps Successful candidates complete employment checks and onboarding to join our payroll system. TIPS & TRICKS Preparing for Your Interview Interviews are a two-way process. Be prepared, stay calm, and showcase your skills. Santam is recognized as a Top Employer 2025 for excellence in people practices, now for the ninth consecutive year. #J-18808-Ljbffr