Job Description

JOB PURPOSE

Provide strategic leadership and oversight for Santam's AI, Data & Analytics Centre of Excellence (COE), consolidating and optimising data, analytics, and AI capabilities across the enterprise.



This EXCO level role ensures the delivery of scalable, secure, and innovative data solutions that enable business growth, operational efficiency, and advanced decision-making. This role oversees the development, deployment, and governance of AI solutions, while driving innovation and ethical AI practices and this role will report into the Group Chief Underwriting Officer.



The position leads seven specialized teams across Data Strategy, Data Management & BI, AI, Analytics, Data Governance, Data Platform, and Automation, driving transformation aligned to Santam's strategic objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1.

Strategic Leadership & Vision:

Define and execute the enterprise-wide data and AI strategy and implementation roadmap aligned to Santam's business objectives; Drive transformation initiatives to consolidate data platforms, governance, and analytics capabilities.

2. Data Strategy:

Enhance the data strategy to ensure high-quality, accessible, and secure data for AI initiatives. Refine data governance frameworks, including compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., POPIA, GDPR). Drive data democratization and self-service analytics across the organization.

3. Governance & Risk Management

Establish robust data governance frameworks ensuring compliance, security, and ethical AI practices; Oversee data quality, integrity, and lifecycle management across all business units.

4. Training and Change Management

Lead change management programmes to embrace the development and adoption of Data, Analytics and AI solutions Foster training programmes and learning platforms to support organisational transformation in Data, Analytics and AI proficiency

5. Technology & Innovation

Lead the design and implementation of scalable data platforms and advanced analytics solutions; Partner with Data Architecture and IT Architecture teams for design, selection and implementation Champion innovation in AI, machine learning, and automation to unlock new business value.

6. Team Leadership

Direct and inspire seven specialised teams to deliver integrated solutions across the COE Build a high-performance culture fostering collaboration, agility, and continuous learning.

7. Stakeholder Engagement

Partner with business leaders to align data, analytics and AI initiatives with strategic priorities by providing solutions to business area challenges; Influence executive decision-making through data-driven insights and predictive analytics. Identify opportunities for AI-driven transformation across underwriting, claims, customer experience, and operational efficiency.

8. Financial & Operational Accountability

Manage consolidated budgets for AI, Data & Analytics, ensuring cost optimization and ROI; Monitor performance metrics and deliver value realisation from use case delivery. Foster team culture of high service levels with focus on value creation to businesses.

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Technology, or related field; Master's degree preferred. Extensive experience (10+ years) in data analytics, AI, and technology leadership roles, ideally within insurance/financial services. Strong understanding of data architecture with A Proven track record of leading large-scale data and AI transformation programs. Deep understanding of data governance, compliance standards, and data privacy regulations. Strong knowledge of data platforms, programming languages (Python, R, SQL), and cloud technologies. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic roadmaps aligned with organisational goals. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

Strategic Thinking & Vision Innovation and Creativity Leadership and Team Development Problem Solving and Analytical Skills Change Management Project and Financial Management

ABOUT SANTAM

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!