We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Department Head to lead our Group Schemes division at AVBOB Group. This is a strategic leadership role focused on driving operational excellence, enhancing service delivery, and growing premium income through effective administration and team management.
You will be working for a well-established company with strong values. In exchange for your services, you will receive a competitive compensation package. You will be joining an organization that values employee development and rewards excellent performance.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:
- Lead the Group Schemes department to ensure effective administration aligned with legislative requirements and AVBOB policies.
- Drive the strategic goal of increasing premium income through efficient systems and processes.
- Liaise with internal and external auditors, administrators, consultants, and senior management to ensure compliance and transparency.
- Establish, maintain, and continuously improve systems, processes, and procedures for accurate scheme administration.
- Evaluate and refine operational workflows using audit reports and exception reports (e.g., FG731, GR10).
- Draft specifications for system changes, test enhancements, and implement new programs.
- Ensure daily premium allocations and reconciliation of control accounts, finalising month-end with no outstanding premiums.
- Prioritise and resolve complex complaints and queries from policyholders, intermediaries, administrators, and consultants.
- Manage serious complaints, including those escalated to the FSCA and Ombudsman.
- Approve claims and payments within delegated authority limits and ensure accurate correspondence.
- Lead, motivate, and manage departmental staff to deliver on strategic and operational goals.
- Conduct quarterly performance appraisals and identify training needs for new and existing staff.
- Promote effective communication through regular team meetings and provide support in resolving complex issues.
- Manage disciplinary processes, counselling, and corrective actions in line with company policy.
- Compile daily and monthly operational reports for management and stakeholders.
- Extract and interpret statistical data to support strategic decision-making.
- Contribute to annual budget planning and monitor arrears for unpaid schemes.
- Provide accurate reporting to auditors, FSCA, and senior leadership.
- Qualifications: Grade 12 with 8–10 years’ experience or a Diploma with 3–5 years’ experience.
- Skills: Advanced MS Excel & Word, strong accounting knowledge, bilingual (English & Afrikaans).
- Advanced MS Excel and MS Word proficiency.
- Strong accounting knowledge (reconciliations, debits, credits).
- Proven experience in administration.
- Performance management (intermediate).
- Communication, Conflict management
- Leadership and people management
- Client service and telephone etiquette
- Fraud prevention skills
Equity Statement: We are committed to Employment Equity when recruiting internally and externally. It is company policy to promote from within wherever possible. “Preference will be given to suitably qualified individuals from previously disadvantaged groups in South Africa.”
