RRP… bridging the skills gap in SA’s insurance industry
As South Africa’s insurance industry continues to grapple with a shortage of specialised skills, initiatives like the Retiree Repurposing Programme (RRP) are stepping in to make a lasting impact.
Launched by the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) in collaboration with the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA), Financial Intermediaries Association (FIA), and the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA), this fully funded mentorship programme brings together industry veterans and emerging professionals to drive knowledge transfer, leadership development, and long-term growth across the non-life insurance sector.
“This is about more than just skills transfer,” says Gerhard Genis, independent professional and Programme Lead of the RRP. “We’re harvesting decades of expertise and ploughing it back into the industry, helping to shape the next generation of leaders.”
What the programme offers
The programme has steadily evolved from its initial manual pilot phase into a robust, tech-supported ecosystem that fosters real connection. And the results speak for themselves - with hundreds of mentorship sessions logged, and strong feedback from both mentees and mentors alike. “Many mentors told me they’ve learned more through this process than they ever expected. The feedback we receive shows how much both mentors and mentees gain from this experience,” Genis said. “That’s the kind of transformation we’re after.”
According to SAIA, the programme is designed to foster professional development through:
- Technical skills transfer:Sharing industry knowledge and best practices (i.e., hands-on approach for a deeper understanding on technical aspects).
- Leadership development:Equipping mentees with essential leadership capabilities (i.e., leadership and management experts procured in addition to the mentor’s guidance on technical matters).
- Soft skills enhancement:Supporting holistic professional growth (i.e., an online system procured offering over 100 soft skills to mentees in addition to the above mentioned).
The initiative is fully funded by INSETA, ensuring that there are no costs to participating companies or individuals.
Who can apply?
Mentor applicants (retirees):
- Semi-retired or retired within the last three years;
- Extensive technical expertise in any field of insurance or reinsurance;
- Proven technical and leadership experience; and
- Availability to meet (in person or virtually) at least twice per month with their assigned mentee.
Mentee applicants (junior to middle managers):
- A minimum of five years' experience in the non-life insurance industry;
- Currently employed at a junior or middle management level;
- Affiliation with a SAIA, FIA, or SAUMA member company; and
- Strong commitment to professional growth and leadership development
Ready to apply?
Applications close at the end of April.
If you want to apply to be a Mentor or Mentee, apply here - https://tinyurl.com/345m9xpd
Why the RRP is a game-changer – exclusive interview
FAnews recently spoke to Genis in an exclusive video interview, where he dives deeper into the purpose and impact of the programme. Don’t miss the chance to hear directly from him about why this initiative matters and how it’s changing the game.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qL9VRo4fg0
Writer’s thoughts
Programs like the Retiree Repurposing Programme are vital for bridging the skills gap in South Africa’s insurance industry, ensuring that valuable expertise is passed down to the next generation of leaders. By applying, both mentors and mentees have the unique opportunity to contribute to the growth of the industry while gaining invaluable experience and professional development. Do you agree? Please comment below, interact with us on Twitter at @fanews_online or email me your thoughts at [email protected].
