Chief Executive Officer

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:Abacus is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead Abacus in achieving sustainable and profitable growth for its shareholders while managing risk effectively. The CEO will collaborate with the Abacus Board of Directors to formulate and execute long-term goals and strategic plans, ensuring that Abacus remains competitive and compliant within the insurance industry, and will drive initiatives that foster a culture of innovation to drive product development, process optimisation and enhanced customer experiences. The CEO will report to the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Pepkor Holdings, maintaining alignment with broader organisational objectives.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Develop and execute a competitive strategy to position Abacus as a leader in the market segment within which it operates, leveraging emerging technologies and market insights.Drive the sustainable profitability of Abacus.Ensure compliance with regulatory and legislative requirements, including risk management and ORSA.Identify, champion, and implement innovative business process improvements, digital transformation initiatives, and emerging technologies to enhance efficiency, effectiveness and customer engagement.Maintain effective relationships with the board, regulators, and other key stakeholders.Incorporate Treat Customers Fairly principles into business strategy.Oversee human resources management, ensuring alignment with Employment Equity targets and fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.Create and sustain a Transformation Plan for Abacus that aligns with the Financial Sector Code,focusing on achieving targets related to personnel, procedures, and processes as outlined in the Insurance Act.Demonstrate effective self-management and foster a collaborative team environment.REQUIREMENTS:Relevant postgraduate degree (e.g., Business, Finance, Law)Professional qualification (e.g., Chartered Accountant, Actuary, Lawyer, Engineer)Minimum 10 years of experience in an executive position within an insurance companyProven track record as a CEO or senior executive in the insurance or broader financial services sector.Comprehensive knowledge of the legal, regulatory, and compliance landscape for life and non-life insurers.Understanding of financial management and reporting requirements (IFRS17).Familiarity with corporate governance, risk management, and the ORSA process.In-depth knowledge of insurance industry practices, policies, and systems.Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to influence and engage at all levels of the organisation.Ability to champion a culture of innovation, agility, and compliance. Proven track record in leading successful digital transformation or innovation initiatives within the financial services industry.Demonstrated ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution.Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and decision-making skills.CLOSING DATE: 21 November 2025If you are interested in the above position and meet the requirements as indicated above, please submit your CV.By submitting your application, you are giving Abacus implicit consent to the storage and processing of your personal information.If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the closing date of this position, pleaseregard your application as being unsuccessful.Abacus strives for equal opportunity in terms of its Employment Equity guidelines.