COVER Magazine

The Role of Insurance in Wildfire Risk Management

Wildfires are an increasing threat to homes, businesses, and communities—yet risk management remains an overlooked area in South Africa. In this discussion we speak with Patrick Ryan, wildfire practitioner and innovator at Vulcan Wildfire Management, about the urgent need for better preparedness. Patrick discusses the lessons from the Knysna fires, the role of insurance in driving behavioural change, and how technology and smarter planning can help mitigate disaster.  
Whether you're an insurer, broker, or homeowner, this episode provides essential insights into protecting properties from the growing threat of wildfires. 

Specialised Coverage for Commercial and Heavy Vehicles

In this discussion we sit down with Sid Beaton, Divisional Transport Manager, and Nico Venter, Commercial Manager at ONE Insurance Underwriting Managers. 
 They share how ONE Insurance has become a leader in transport and commercial risk solutions, leveraging technology, telematics, and a 24/7 Incident Management Centre to protect businesses against evolving risks.  
We discuss the differences between long-haul and short-haul transport insurance, the role of brokers, and how proactive risk management is reshaping the industry. Tune in to learn how ONE Insurance is setting new standards in commercial vehicle and goods-in-transit coverage. 

Resilience and Innovation: Old Mutual Insure’s 2025 Outlook

Jerry Anthonyrajah, Chief Commercial Officer and Acting CIO at Old Mutual Insure, offers a forward-looking perspective on the insurance industry in 2025. Highlighting themes of resilience and adaptation, he discusses how insurers have consolidated to navigate challenges like climate change and supply chain inflation. Jerry underscores the importance of technology adoption, advanced analytics, and cybersecurity in ensuring future sustainability. He sees growth opportunities in health insurance and cyber insurance, emphasising the vital role brokers play in addressing these needs. Jerry also stresses the need for brokers to evolve through digitisation, specialisation, and customer-centric strategies to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. 

Introducing glu: A Fresh Approach to Mutuality

In this conversation, Tony from COVER speaks with Michele Jennings, CEO of glu, the newest division of PPS designed to expand mutuality beyond graduate professionals. glu is a tech-driven, profit-sharing financial services brand targeting digitally savvy individuals aged 25-55. Michele shares how glu’s vibrant identity, cutting-edge technology, and innovative profit-sharing model differentiate it from traditional offerings. Learn how glu makes financial security more accessible and why its unique approach is reshaping the industry. Don’t miss this deep dive into how glu is bringing mutuality back to more South Africans. 🎧 Tune in now! 

The Role of Risk Cover in Critical Illness

Join Kresantha Pillay, Chief Specialist for Risk Products at Liberty, as she delves into the emotional and financial challenges surrounding critical illness, especially cancer. Discover how Liberty’s innovative products, like the Cancer Claim Booster and Critical Illness Booster, offer much-needed financial relief during these life-altering events. Kresantha highlights the importance of proactive planning, comprehensive risk cover, and the value of professional financial advice. Learn how Liberty is redefining critical illness cover to provide peace of mind and empower clients to focus on recovery. 

Workers Life’s Focus on Value-Driven Products

In a conversation with Cover Magazine, Jaco Mostert, Group CEO of Workers Life, discussed the challenges and opportunities in the insurance industry for 2024 and beyond. He highlighted the global gap in insurance, driven by inflation, distribution issues, and lack of access to coverage. Jaco emphasized the importance of making insurance products accessible and affordable for middle to lower-income populations. He outlined Workers Life's strategy to leverage technology, invest in marketing, and expand distribution capabilities. He also stressed the need for financial literacy and overcoming barriers for individuals in underserved markets. 

Understanding Marine and 4x4 Insurance

In this discussion, we sit down with Ian Georgeson, CEO of Cross Country Insurance, to explore the company’s role in South Africa’s specialist insurance market. Ian shares the journey of building a 27-year legacy in marine and 4x4 insurance, catering to adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. From tackling unique challenges like underinsurance and equipment failures to fostering community through events like the Sodwana Fishing Competition, Ian provides valuable insights into the business of leisure lifestyle insurance. Tune in for expert advice, fascinating anecdotes, and a closer look at how Cross Country keeps its clients covered on land and water. 

Affordable Healthcare for All: The Challenge and Solutions

In this conversation, Martin Muller, Business Development Consultant at Medihelp, emphasises the importance of financial advice in healthcare funding. He explains the critical differences between medical aid and insurance, noting that while medical aid covers a vast array of conditions without limits, insurance policies often have caps. Muller also discusses Medihelp's efforts to create affordable medical aid options, particularly for students, and highlights the growing challenge of providing quality healthcare in an economically strained environment. Financial advisors, he stresses, are vital in ensuring clients make informed decisions regarding their health cover. 

Adapting to the Changing Investment Landscape

Shaun Ruiters, CEO of PPS Investments, shares insights on his first year leading the company and how PPS focuses on empowering South Africa’s graduate professionals.  
Ruiters highlights the evolving role of multi-management, shifting towards more tailored solutions for different client needs. With rising interest in passive investments, both globally and locally, PPS has embraced innovation while staying true to its purpose-driven approach.  
He also touches on the increased complexity in the financial advisory space and how PPS supports advisors in staying relevant and providing bespoke client solutions. 

Beyond the AI Hype: The True Focus of Digital Transformation

AI is a hot topic in insurance, but real digital transformation goes far beyond just implementing AI tools. Graham Harvey, CEO of Cardinal, emphasises that insurers must start with business needs—such as fraud prevention and process automation—before determining if AI is the right solution. Legacy systems remain the backbone of insurance operations, and integrating AI requires collaboration with system providers. Additionally, challenges like cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and workforce reskilling must be addressed. Ultimately, successful digital transformation is about rethinking business processes strategically rather than blindly adopting new technology.