Merit Field Assessor (JG8)

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Santam Merit Claims department has a position available for a Merit Motor Field Assessor , based in Cape Town.

WHAT WILL YOU DO

The Merit Motor Field Assessor is responsible for conducting in-depth field investigations on flagged and complex motor claims to determine their validity and ensure appropriate claims outcomes. The role requires extensive travel within the Western Cape region and interaction with internal and external stakeholders to identify potential fraud, manage disputes, and uphold the integrity of Santam’s claims process.
 

WHAT WILL MAKE YOU SUCCESSFUL IN THE ROLE

•    Conduct detailed field investigations on segmented and flagged motor claims.
•    Assess accident scenes, inspect damaged vehicles, and review photographic and documentary evidence.
•    Interview clients, witnesses, and third parties to gather relevant facts and verify claim details.
•    Identify signs of potential fraud and escalate concerns in line with Santam’s fraud prevention protocols.
•    Liaise with intermediaries, panel beaters, towing services, forensic teams, and law enforcement as necessary.
•    Compile comprehensive investigation reports and submit findings within agreed turnaround times.
•    Ensure all actions are in compliance with internal policies, Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles, and industry regulations.
•    Assist in resolving disputes and queries related to merit decisions and investigative outcomes.
•    Maintain professional relationships with clients and external stakeholders to support ongoing investigations and collaboration.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

•    Minimum:
o    Matric / Grade 12
o    2–3 years’ experience in short-term motor insurance claims
o    At least 3 years with assessing experience
o    Valid Code B driver’s license and willingness to travel
•    Advantageous:
o    Tertiary qualification in Insurance, Law, Forensics, or related fields
o    Previous experience in fraud detection or forensic investigations
o    Exposure to or knowledge of forensic systems, accident reconstruction, or telematics

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

•    Thorough understanding of short-term insurance claims processes
•    Knowledge of motor vehicle mechanics and accident damage assessment
•    Strong investigative techniques and interviewing skills
•    Familiarity with regulatory and legal frameworks relevant to motor claims
•    Proficiency in Microsoft Office and claims management systems

COMPETENCIES

•    Analytical thinking and attention to detail
•    Initiative and problem-solving orientation
•    Strong communication and report-writing skills
•    Resilience and adaptability
•    High ethical standards and integrity
•    Customer service orientation with negotiation skills
•    Ability to work independently and manage time effectively

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Santam is the market leader in the general insurance industry in Southern Africa. We are a large, diversified, expanding and transforming company and whilst based in South Africa, we are rapidly moving into a number of emerging markets, both in Africa and Asia.  Our success is rooted in our passion for our clients and everything we do is centred on our delivery of insurance good and proper. 

Qualified applicants are invited to submit their cover letter, CV and salary requirements in MS Word format online at www.santam.co.za/careers.  Please indicate the position for which you are applying.  Should you be aware of a qualified individual, please pass this vacancy on to them.