Commercial Risk Surveyor

Career Opportunity

Santam Namibia has a position available for a Commercial Risk Surveyor. This position will be based in Windhoek, Namibia. 

What will you do?

The Risk Surveyor has to assess and quantify physical risk exposures at our client facilities while applying relevant technical knowledge to make an informed decision. Surveyors conduct detailed risk assessments of a facility and provide an in-depth view of the risk to underwriters assisting them to underwrite the risk appropriately.

What will make you successful in this role?

The candidate will be expected to perform (but not limited to) the following duties:

• Travel to the client’s facilities to complete surveys and risk assessments;
• Conduct a comprehensive survey and assessment of small to medium commercial, industrial, and agricultural risks;
• Identify suitable risk management and risk reduction requirements;
• Calculate and define MPL scenarios based on the layout of each facility (including Business Interruption assessments);
• Compile comprehensive risk reports with risk reduction requirements based on the risk assessments carried out;
• Communicate effectively with brokers, the insured’s staff as well as internal Santam staff;
• Complete compulsory theoretical and practical training programs as required (in Namibia & South Africa) related to technical risk management and risk identification;
• Demonstrate basic knowledge related to fire hazards, construction materials, fire risk management, fire protection systems and equipment, occupational health & safety, machinery, and equipment as well as manufacturing processes.  Natural hazards such as Flood, Subsidence, Wind and Storms are also included. More advanced risk management knowledge will be obtained after completion of the relevant training programmes/material;
• Engage with Management and other internal stakeholders as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant Engineering Degree/Diploma and/or;
• Extensive Fire Brigade experience and/or;
• 1-3 years relevant Risk Surveying experience;
• Technical risk management experience will be an advantage (Short- term insurance related);
• Matric (essential);
• Valid drivers’ license;
• Occupational Health and Safety qualification/knowledge/experience;
• Risk management qualification (advantageous);
• FPSAS qualification (advantageous).

Skills

• Ability to learn and research;
• Ability to manage own work environment;
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills and abilities;
• Communication Skills;
• Understanding of basic fire hazards, firefighting, risk identification;
• Basic report writing;
• Use of MS Office 365;
• Use of policy information systems;
• Capacity to operate under pressure;
• Self-starter;
• Knowledge of Underwriting and underwriting processes;
• Knowledge of the policy wording;
• Technology awareness and capability;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• Analytical ability and solution orientated;
• Good written and verbal competence;
• Good presentation and report writing skills;
• Ability to speak and write in English and Afrikaans;
• Ability to achieve targets independently;
• Focus on quality, integrity, and high level of professionalism;
• Positive contribution in a team and working under pressure;
• Ability to work within a team environment as well as individually;
• Insurance risk management principles/knowledge;
• Short term insurance industry knowledge;
• Demonstrate an understanding of relevant fire protection, risk management and applicable building codes/standards;
• Desire to learn, apply knowledge and advance in the technical risk management field related to insurance.

Competencies

• Delivering results and ability to work under pressure whilst meeting customer expectations;
• Relating and networking with the ability to collaborate effectively;
• Analysing and attention to detail whilst interpreting data, information, and real-time scenarios;
• Applying expertise and using technology;
• Achieving personal as well as Company goals and objectives;
• Learning and researching;
• Time management, planning and organizing;
• Writing and reporting;
• Following instructions and procedures as well as client Protocols (e.g., induction);
• Working with people;
• Ability to be client focused;
• Adhering to principles and values.

Our commitment to transformation

Santam is the market leader in the general insurance industry in Southern Africa. As a large, diversified, and expanding company, we are committed to transformation and growth. While our headquarters are in South Africa, we are rapidly extending our presence into emerging markets across Africa and Asia. 

With a client base of over 1 million policyholders, Santam serves individuals, commercial enterprises, specialist business owners, and institutions, including 80 of the Top 100 companies listed on the JSE. Our commitment to Insurance, Good and Proper goes beyond just providing cover—we offer peace of mind, ensuring our clients can focus on living in the moment, not worrying about the unexpected. Because at Santam, we believe the freedom to seize every day is worth protecting. 

People drive our business, and we are committed to attracting the best talent, whether for permanent roles or short-term opportunities.

Santam is committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities. We are dedicated to neuro-inclusivity and fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive.  

Take the next step in your career—apply now and be part of a company that’s shaping the future of insurance. This is Freedom!