Head of Motor Claims

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.

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.