Claims Specialist – SHA (Sanlam Group) | Johannesburg, Gauteng
Are you a skilled professional with expertise in claims management and legal analysis? Join Sanlam Group, one of South Africa’s most reputable financial services and insurance companies, as a Claims Specialist – SHA, based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to work within a team that values accuracy, compliance, and innovation while supporting Santam’s commitment to “Insurance, Good and Proper.”
About the Position
The Claims Specialist (SHA) plays a critical role in managing a portfolio of specialist insurance claims, ensuring that all cases are handled efficiently, fairly, and within the company’s governance framework. The position involves end-to-end claims management, including analysis, negotiations, legal drafting, and client liaison. You will collaborate closely with attorneys, loss adjusters, brokers, and internal teams to ensure claims are resolved effectively and in alignment with Santam and Sanlam’s operational excellence standards.
This is a career-building opportunity for professionals with a legal background and non-motor liability claims experience, who are ready to take ownership of their portfolio and deliver impactful results within a leading insurance group.
Key Responsibilities
1. Claims Practice Management
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Manage all aspects of a specialist claims portfolio, including registration, case management, settlement negotiation, recoveries, and diary management.
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Draft and finalize settlement agreements and legal documents within mandate as per the Claims Governance Folder.
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Appoint, monitor, and manage attorneys and loss adjusters, ensuring they comply with service-level agreements (SLAs).
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Track and control legal expenditure to maintain cost efficiency.
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Process claims accurately using internal systems, update reserves, authorize payments, and record all claim information.
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Prepare risk reports and escalate high-value claims to senior executives when required.
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Ensure adherence to all regulatory, compliance, and governance frameworks.
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Develop and refine claims-related procedures to align with legal and operational requirements.
2. Analytical and Legal Expertise
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Review and interpret insurance policy wording to determine coverage and policy applicability.
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Conduct in-depth legal and factual analysis of claims to evaluate liability, quantum, and potential exposure.
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Draft comprehensive legal opinions supported by relevant case law and legislation.
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Apply critical judgment to assess claims merits and formulate strategic recommendations.
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Identify and gather necessary documentation to support the decision-making process.
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Recommend policy improvements to underwriters based on identified trends and claim outcomes.
3. Individual Claims Leadership
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Continuously enhance professional knowledge through training in case law, regulatory updates, and claims management practices.
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Contribute to developing internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for greater departmental efficiency.
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Proactively engage with brokers and insured clients to foster trust and long-term relationships.
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Demonstrate initiative in resolving challenges and improving claims turnaround times.
4. Client Liaison and Relationship Management
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Liaise with clients, brokers, attorneys, and internal stakeholders to resolve queries promptly and professionally.
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Attend consultations, settlement meetings, and client reviews.
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Ensure that client communication aligns with Santam’s core value of putting customers first.
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Deliver superior client experiences that promote confidence and loyalty to the Sanlam and Santam brands.
Skills and Attributes for Success
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Strong analytical and legal interpretation skills.
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Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
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High attention to detail and sound judgment.
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Client-oriented approach with empathy and professionalism.
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Strong follow-up and problem-solving capabilities.
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Ability to strategize and manage claims to finality.
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Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Qualifications and Experience
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Matric (Grade 12).
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Law Degree (LLB or equivalent).
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Admitted Attorney (essential).
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FAIS compliance is advantageous.
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Prior experience in non-motor liability claims handling.
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Proven ability to manage complex claims portfolios within an insurance or legal setting.
Why Join Sanlam and Santam?
Sanlam Group, through its subsidiary Santam, is the market leader in general insurance across Southern Africa. With a presence in emerging markets throughout Africa and Asia, the company offers exposure to international best practices and innovative insurance solutions.
With over 1 million policyholders, Santam serves a wide range of clients — from individuals to major corporates, including 80 of the Top 100 JSE-listed companies. Employees benefit from an inclusive, diverse, and growth-oriented work culture where integrity, excellence, and transformation are at the core.
Santam is committed to:
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Diversity, inclusion, and neuro-inclusivity in the workplace.
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Equal opportunity employment.
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Building a culture of belonging where every employee thrives.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to advance your career and make a meaningful impact in the insurance industry, apply for the Claims Specialist – SHA position today. Visit the official Sanlam Careers Portal to submit your online application.
Applications close on the advertised date. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
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