Risk Surveyor

What will you do?

This career opportunity is available at Santam Commercial Underwriting, Survey Department for a Risk Surveyor to be based in Pretoria
 

What will make you successful in this role?

The Risk Surveyor plays a pivotal role in Santam’s risk management value chain by conducting comprehensive risk assessments on commercial and industrial properties. The purpose is to support underwriters with detailed, accurate, and technically sound insights to inform appropriate underwriting decisions. The role combines both desktop and on-site survey assessments and may require consultation with internal and external stakeholders and will require travel across regions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Surveying and Risk Analysis

• Conduct physical and desktop risk surveys according to SLA and standards.
• Analyse site risks including fire, safety, structural, and operational exposures.
• Review external surveys and extract key insights and summaries.
• Compile accurate, well-written, and insightful survey reports.

 
Risk Management Advisory

• Translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for Underwriters, Brokers, and Clients.
• Provide guidance on risk mitigation, improvement strategies, and compliance.
• Advise on design rationality and risk reduction methods.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with internal departments including Underwriting, Operations, and Broker Distribution.
• Engage with brokers and clients to explain survey outcomes and recommendations.
• Represent Santam in discussions relating to high-risk or complex cases.

Quality and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with legislative requirements and municipal bylaws.
•  Maintain up-to-date knowledge on regional risk profiles and hazards.
• Review and correct supervised surveys where applicable.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum Matric (NQF Level 4).
• Preferably a Technical Engineering Diploma/Degree, Fire Service Qualification or related qualification.
• At least 3 years' experience in risk surveying or a related field.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel.
• Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of FPA courses, high-hazard risk environments, and risk prevention principles advantageous.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of basic fire hazards, prevention, and mitigation.
• Ability to interpret legislation, building codes, and by-laws.
• Sound report writing and communication skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving.
• Time management and ability to work independently.
• Understanding of underwriting principles and policy wordings.
• Knowledge of production processes and machinery risks is an advantage.

Competencies

• Client Focus – Understand and act on client needs.
• Drives Results – Take accountability for meeting objectives.
• Analytical Thinking – Evaluate risk thoroughly and logically.
• Attention to Detail – Ensure accuracy in assessments and reporting.
• Flexibility and Adaptability – Manage change and shifting priorities.
• Collaboration – Work effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Time Management & Planning – Prioritize tasks and manage workload efficiently.
• Innovation & Learning – Continuously improve and apply new knowledge.